News

The first 25 small-scale DAB radio multiplex licences are being advertised today by Ofcom. Applicants now have 12 weeks to prepare and submit applications, with the first small scale multiplex licences expected to be awarded early in 2021.

This new business and technology platform for the international radio and digital audio industries launched online on 2 September. It will also introduce a bimonthly print issue in December. Created by multicultural professionals especially for the international radio broadcast and digital audio industries, RedTech covers the latest trends and developments impacting the global radio and audio sectors and circulates to executives who manage and operate radio stations, networks, sales houses, music production companies, and more.

Pluxbox is a global player in the radio industry that offers solutions to broadcasters so they can cope with changing their production process to fit the needs of the listeners in the current media world. According to Pluxbox CTO Cas Adriani, DAB is not only a digital way of distributing audio, but also one that enables the distribution of other content such as metadata or slides.

The Netherland's regional DAB+ network continues to expand, with new station launches taking place across the country. More recently, a new transmitter was launched in Leiden, helping expand DAB+ coverage north of The Hague.

From 10 September, Aldi will be offering a budget battery-powered radio from manufacturer Terris. The cordless DAB+ receivers will be available across Aldi stores for just under 25 euros.

Germany is preparing to launch its second national multiplex, which will host up to 16 commercial stations. According to the latest reports, the first tests ahead of the launch have already started taking place across a number of states in Germany.

RadioDNS have launched new Radio Metadata Terms. The Terms is a template agreement between a broadcaster (content provider) and a radio device manufacturer. It describes what is allowed to be done with metadata and content, and is relevant to both broadcasters and manufacturers.

The initiative, promoted by the party Compromís, is in the Senate in the amendment period until September 17. The concrete measures are expected to be discussed later in the Committee on Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation.

The campaign underlines the important role visual information now plays in providing a positive digital radio experience for drivers – and it offers guidance to broadcasters on how to use information they already have in the form of metadata to provide a richer experience for the driver.

WorldDAB is launching a campaign with the support of its Automotive User Experience (UX) Group members to encourage broadcasters to use their visual assets to keep digital radio prominent in car dashboards.