Digging into the Digital Waves: The Debate over FM Switch-off in Germany
Famed for their radio production in Schöneck, Technisat, the electronics manufacturer, is driving growth through digital reception with DAB+. Stefan Kön, Managing Director, shared with the German Press Agency that around 16 million DAB+ devices have been sold in Germany since its introduction. The company is hopeful for a binding switch-off date for FM—a move they believe could further boost digital reception's popularity.
The plan to switch off FM radio in Saxony has been postponed, with a proposed amendment to remove the end-of-2025 date from the Private Broadcasting Act. The latest revision is expected in the first half of 2024. While the government advocates for DAB+ due to its affordability, greater variety, and high-quality reception, over half of Germany still relies on FM radio.
Technisat's state-of-the-art products, from digital radios to electric car wallboxes, have earned Schöneck, Vogtland, as their production hub. Stefan Kön mentioned that Technisat leads the German market in digital radio sales, with significant exports to countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Scandinavia.
Digital radios could become crucial in emergency alert systems. Technisat's approach involves remote activation of DAB+ radios in standby mode, ensuring no missed alerts even during the night. While DAB+ devices are already available on the market, mobile radio networks may face overload during emergencies, posing potential challenges.
DAB+ vs. FM: The Great Debate
DAB+ offers several advantages, such as improved sound quality, a broader range of programs, and efficient use of spectrum, making it an attractive prospect for a digital switchover. However, concerns over cost, technical barriers, competitive disadvantage, and public resistance persist. Legislation might make this shift inevitable, but a binding switch-off date remains elusive.
[1] Technisat's digital radio gains momentum in Germany,
[2] Rising Costs amid the Switchover to Digital Radio in Germany,
[3] The "Audio Trends 2023" study by the state media authorities,
[4] Understanding Digital Radio in Germany, , last accessed on Feb 21, 2023.
