Millions of DAB radio listeners to be locked out of stations
Millions of DAB radio listeners are facing the possibility of being locked out of popular stations, including Classic FM, as major channels are abandoning older Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radios in favor of the new DAB+ technology.
This move is forcing listeners to purchase more modern radios in order to continue accessing their favorite stations.
The shift to digital radio was initially prompted by the government’s plan to turn off the FM signal, but with this delay until at least 2030, many DAB radios are becoming obsolete as they can only pick up the DAB signal and not the superior DAB+. Classic FM, which boasts around 4.5 million listeners, is among the popular stations that have announced their switch to DAB+.
However, this change will leave behind around one-third of DAB radio owners who do not have DAB+ capacity.
DAB Radio is Popular
Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radios have been a popular choice for radio listeners, offering a wide range of stations and improved sound quality. However, millions of listeners will soon find themselves unable to tune in to their favorite stations, including Classic FM. Major channels are abandoning older DAB radios in favor of new DAB+ technology, which means that listeners will need to purchase a more modern radio in order to continue enjoying their favorite programs.
Background Information
Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radios have been a major part of the radio industry since their introduction in the UK in 1995. However, with the announcement of the shutdown of the FM signal in 2015, many listeners were pushed to switch to digital radio. This led to a significant increase in the number of households with DAB radios. Classic FM, one of the most popular stations in the UK with around 4.5 million listeners, has also decided to make the switch to DAB+.
According to figures from Rajar (Radio Joint Audience Research), nearly 50 million adults, or 88% of those aged over 15, listen to their favorite radio station at least once a week. Of these listeners, 42% use a DAB or DAB+ radio, with a further 24% listening through websites, apps, and smart speakers.
However, one-third of DAB radio owners who listen at home do not have DAB+ capacity. This means that around 10.1 million UK households need to purchase new DAB+ radios in order to continue enjoying their favorite stations.
Impact on Listeners
The switch to DAB+ technology means that millions of listeners will need to buy new radios in order to access their favorite stations. This can be a significant expense for listeners, especially for those on a tight budget. In addition, there are risks associated with buying secondhand digital radios.
Many older radios can only pick up the DAB signal and not the superior DAB+, meaning that listeners may still be locked out of accessing certain channels.
Complaints from listeners about not being able to access their favorite channels have also been on the rise.
Listeners often call into stations to complain that they are unable to get their radio to play the right channel. This is particularly common among older people who are trying to be thrifty by purchasing secondhand radios. The switch to DAB+ technology has created frustration for these listeners, as they now need to invest in new radios or risk being locked out of their favorite stations.
Industry Response
The switch to DAB+ technology has led to an increase in sales of DAB radios. According to Emily Jolley, an audio merchandiser for John Lewis, DAB radios have seen steady growth, with a 4% increase since August alone. This growth is driven by factors such as customers future-proofing their radios as more stations become digital-only.
Despite the switch to DAB+, the BBC has expressed its commitment to continue serving those with DAB radios. While Classic FM will turn off its DAB signal when it switches to the new service, it will still be available on FM radio. Other commercial stations, such as Bauer Media channels, have also made the switch to DAB+.
Classic FM’s response to the switch to DAB+ has not been without controversy. The station, which launched in 1992 as a specialized station for classical music, has faced criticism from listeners who are disappointed by the switch. However, Classic FM has made the decision to embrace the new technology in order to provide a better listening experience for its audience.
Government Review
In a government review conducted by the Department for Media, Culture and Sport in 2021, it was recommended that FM signals should continue in the UK until at least 2030. This recommendation came after the announcement of the shutdown of the FM signal in 2015. The review recognized the need to address the concerns of listeners who rely on FM radios and may be locked out of accessing their favorite stations.
Conclusion Millions of DAB radio listeners to be locked out of stations
The switch from DAB to DAB+ technology has left millions of listeners unable to access their favorite stations, including Classic FM. The need to purchase new DAB+ radios has created financial burdens for many listeners, and there are risks associated with buying secondhand radios that may not be compatible. Despite these challenges, the industry has seen an increase in sales of DAB radios, indicating that there is still demand for digital radio.
The government review’s recommendation to continue FM signals until 2030 demonstrates the need to address the concerns of listeners and ensure that they are not locked out of accessing their favorite stations.
