FM Radio Winner In Public Service Consultation

Requirement for DAB expansion for public radio is not supported in Sweden. Mandatory FM receivers in new cars are welcomed.

Although the proposal to replace FM with DAB was firmly rejected by the parliament in 2016 the issue is still on the agenda in Sweden. However, the analogue FM network consolidates its continued strong position in the media landscape according to the now concluded consultation regarding public service broadcasting. 

The government's expert authority, the Post and Telecommunications Board (PTS), agrees with the committee's conclusion that no requirement should be introduced for public radio Sveriges Radio’s to expand DAB broadcasting. Civil society organizations for local radio and television see serious consequences for community radio if SR abandons the FM band for DAB. It is only commercial broadcaster Viaplay that wants SR to expand and broadcast in the DAB network. In several opinions, it is welcomed that, as in Finland, requirements for FM receivers in new cars should be introduced.

- Here is an overview of the consultation responses regarding FM and DAB:

European Market Players Join For 5G Broadcast Smartphones

Receiver profile for Europe released for review
The European 5G Broadcast handset taskforce, gathering EBU and BNE members, meets a major milestone for the introduction of smartphones with 5G Broadcast terrestrial radio and television reception functionality in Europe.

In an aim to drive the introduction of smartphones with 5G Broadcast reception in Europe, members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and Broadcast Networks Europe (BNE), with the support of Qualcomm Technologies, have formed a working group to establish a common receiver profile for 5G Broadcast.