Digital Audio Broadcasting Plus (DAB+) is transforming the landscape of radio broadcasting, offering a fresh, efficient approach to delivering radio content. As Jacqueline Bierhorst said, DAB+ is becoming a global game-changer for radio.
DAB+, which stands for Digital Audio Broadcasting, represents a digital alternative to traditional FM and AM radio. Unlike its predecessors, DAB+ broadcasts digitally over the airwaves, providing more channels with better sound quality and lower costs. This system doesn’t rely on the internet, making it accessible and reliable for a broad audience.
Bierhorst, President of WorldDAB and a consultant on DAB+ in Flanders, emphasised that DAB+ is not only an upgrade but a necessary evolution for radio. In Europe, for example, the rollout has been significant: France’s DAB+ coverage now reaches over 60% of the population, while Germany’s coverage is over 70%. Australia has also embraced DAB+, with national multiplexes enhancing access and variety in radio content.
Globally, DAB+ is making strides. In Spain, legislation has mandated DAB+ in new cars, pushing adoption and coverage. Switzerland and Germany are planning to phase out FM in favour of DAB+, and in Asia and Africa, countries like Thailand, Ghana, and Senegal are beginning to adopt DAB+ technology. This broad adoption reflects the technology’s growing importance in the media landscape.
DAB+ revitalises radio by providing more channels and better quality without the need for internet connectivity. It supports a dual strategy for broadcasters, allowing them to compete more effectively with digital platforms. This transition is not only expanding radio’s reach but also increasing audience engagement and revenue, showcasing DAB+ as a vital component of the future of radio broadcasting.
