FM broadcasting could be switched off in the future in favour of digital radio via DAB+, but this will not happen overnight and will depend on how strongly listeners adopt digital reception. In countries where FM and DAB+ run in parallel, a transition period of around ten years is usually planned before FM might be shut down, and whether that final step is taken ultimately depends on listener behaviour.
One key reason for a possible FM switch-off is cost. Broadcasting via FM and DAB+ is expensive, and FM frequencies could be reallocated to other uses. DAB+ is more efficient because the transmission power needed for many stations is lower than on FM, which reduces energy costs. In addition, stations no longer each need their own individual frequency, since they are bundled together in a multiplex, which further cuts energy use.
For listeners, DAB+ is a modern transmission path that offers better sound quality and the ability to carry additional information. It can also be used to send alerts to all receivers in case of emergencies, similar to Lux-Alert messages on mobile phones. Unlike internet radio, DAB+ is free to use once a receiver is purchased. Internet radio offers some of the same advantages, but it costs the listener money through their internet subscription and can be affected by mobile coverage gaps or insufficient bandwidth.
DAB+ coverage of the country can be achieved with far fewer antennas than mobile internet, and sound quality remains the same everywhere as long as there is reception. Digitalisation of radio improves sound quality and mobile reception in general, which matters in particular because around 60% of radio listening takes place in cars. It also increases the range of stations and formats available, giving listeners more choice and variety, often with simpler ways to find programmes. The only real requirement is owning a DAB+-capable radio.
In the long term, digitalisation allows broadcasters to broaden their offering by launching additional programmes and services. Because diffusion costs on a multiplex are shared between all participating stations and less energy is needed than for FM, DAB+ is ultimately cheaper for broadcasters, although these benefits are fully realised only once FM is no longer in use.
