Flop of the week: Setback for digital radio DAB+

The digital radio technology Digital Audio Broadcast DAB+ suffered a major setback last week. On the one hand, the Swiss Private Radio Association VSP advised its members to opt for a digital broadcasting technology soon, clearly supporting the cheaper high-definition technology HD radio for financial reasons. In addition, the German Radio and Audio Services Assembly of the Association of Private Broadcasting and Telemedia VPRT has spoken out against the introduction of DAB+ radio in Germany, which is planned for fall 2009. Financial considerations play a central role in both recommendations. There are currently around 20 million FM radios in Swiss households and cars. In comparison: Only 30,000 receivers of the outdated DAB technology and an unknown number of newer DAB+ devices are in operation. The VSP agrees with the German VPRT, which warns against phasing out FM technology, as this would deprive private radio companies of their business and livelihood and destroy investments and jobs.