Europe's public broadcasters at the forefront of digital radio development.
Friday, 15 June 2007
Geneva, 15 June 2007 - Will analogue FM and AM bands soon disappear across Europe? Is the digitalisation of radio a realistic option? Which digital radio platforms are available today to broadcasters? How can broadcasters respond to the evolving needs of radio listeners? The "Public Radio in Europe 2007" study, published today by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU)* focuses on these and many other key issues related to the future of radio. It is the first comprehensive study on the role of public service broadcasters (PSBs) in the development of digital radio. It highlights the main tendencies in Europe and the latest perspectives for the future from broadcasters, regulators and industry experts.
The study, produced by the EBU's Strategic Information Service (SIS)** was presented today in Geneva at the EBU Digital Radio Conference where experts are currently discussing means and platforms available as well as expectations and constraints related to the digitalisation of radio.
The key finding of the study is that public service broadcasters are at the forefront of digital radio developments and crucial to the take up and success of both DAB/DAB+ and DRM technologies. From testing, to content provision, to extending coverage of the population, PSBs are committed to bringing the benefits of digital technologies to all citizens across Europe.
However, the emergence of new standards may create confusion and disrupt digital radio implementation in some countries as regulators and planners re-evaluate the potential of each technology. Furthermore, enabling regulation is not yet in place in many countries. The study therefore highlights the dilemma faced by PSBs and national governments in choosing the appropriate digital standards in a fast moving technological environment.
Consensus of all key industry and government players is necessary to drive radio digitalisation. European regulators also have a role to play to facilitate digital radio and motivate key players.
However, for the time being, analogue switch-over is not on the horizon for radio and it will take more than a decade until it becomes a realistic option. There are indications that FM will persist beyond 2020 in most markets.
The study also underlines the fact that without a dedicated transmission network, radio may risk being subsumed by other platforms dominated by television or other services. Radio broadcasts may in fact lose prominence if offered as a supplementary service by aggregators controlling the menus, EPGs, and technical parameters of transmission.
Note to Editors:
* About the European Broadcasting Union (EBU)
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is the largest association of national broadcasters in the world (73 active Members, 43 associate Members). The EBU helps public service broadcasters to deliver unique high quality programming to their audiences. It offers Members technical, operational and legal services, and coordinates a growing supply of quality content for radio, television and new platforms. It provides Members with information and analysis on media trends, and training designed to meet their needs. The EBU works to secure recognition of the crucial role of public service broadcasters in the digital audiovisual landscape.
Radio collaborations cover music, news, sports, youth programmes, local and regional stations. Each year the Euroradio network relays 2,500 concerts and operas, and the Radio Department coordinates the transmission of 440 sports fixtures and 120 major news events.
An executive summary of the Digital Radio Study is available on: www.ebu.ch
**Strategic Information Service (SIS)
The SIS is the research unit of the EBU specializing in economic and market analysis. SIS works with all functional departments of the Permanent Services. It conducts data collection, primary research, and surveys; compiles and analyses information; and makes results available through published reports, presentations, and other communication. In addition, SIS procures existing published studies/expertise and maintains one of the most extensive and up-to-date repositories of media publications in Europe.
The objectives of the SIS are to provide the basic tools for Permanent Services and Members to understand relative positioning of Members and the markets in which they operate; to help them anticipate trends; to develop strategies; and to provide the evidentiary basis for legal and lobbying positions.
