The EBU has been active in driving forward thinking about the digitization of radio at IBC 2018 in Amsterdam.

At a Seminar organised by WorldDAB, the EBU discussed issues around the changing media environment and demonstrated a prototype voice-controlled DAB radio that has the potential to deliver a new listening experience for users.

Ben Poor, from EBU Technology & Innovation, introduced the project, which has been developed by his department and the NAB Pilot Project: "Radio reaches 85% of European citizens every week, overwhelmingly through free-to-air broadcast FM and DAB+," he said. "But smart speakers and other voice-controlled devices are becoming an important platform for innovation in radio.  

"By demonstrating that combining the best of broadcast and the internet generates value for both content producers and audiences, the EBU and NAB are working to ensure that the vital role of radio and its benefits for communities and societies are maintained."

The EBU's Head of Radio Graham Dixon also spoke about changing perceptions around the application and role of DAB in radio reception.  He recalled the fact that, at its launch in the 1990s, DAB was seen as the universal panacea for radio of the future, but this was before the internet has penetrated our daily lives. 

Colleagues from both commercial and public service radio shared how they were developing a dual strategy around the advancement of DAB, while at the same time exploiting everything IP can offer.  Digital radio remains robust, free-to-air and not susceptible to hacking, and for these reasons, it will hold an importance place in the delivery of Europe’s most trusted medium for the foreseeable future.

Graham Dixon welcomed the development, saying: "The arguments in support of DAB can no longer be made in isolation from other means of delivery. For many years, we have talked about hybrid radio as combining the stability of broadcast with the flexibility of IP for the provision of visual material and data.  With this prototype, we can envisage a seamless listening experience, where the internet not only enhances, but also activates the broadcast transmission."

Modalities of radio distribution continue to develop rapidly, and new possibilities are constantly emerging. The EBU is committed to working with Members to meet these new challenges, whether it be supporting the national adoption of DAB or, through the VOX Group, ensuring access to PSM channels through smart voice-activated devices from Amazon, Google and Apple.

For more technical information, click here.