New DAB+ information campaign prepares for the phase-out of FM
Biel/Bienne, 04.05.2020 - Digital radio via DAB+ is becoming increasingly popular. The FM frequencies in Switzerland will be switched off by the end of 2024 at the latest. In order to prepare the population for the switch to digital radio reception, the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) has launched a new DAB+ information campaign.
Better sound quality, a wider range of programme services, larger coverage areas: thanks to these advantages, DAB+ technology has now replaced analogue very high frequency radio waves (VHF-FM) as the standard for listening to radio in Switzerland. DAB+ is already the most widely used transmission channel for radio programme services in Switzerland. Only around 15 percent of people still listen to radio exclusively via FM.
Supporting the switch to DAB+
In order to encourage these listeners to switch to digital reception at home and in their cars, a multi-year information campaign was launched on 4 May 2020. It is intended to support the audience with information and assistance during the upcoming FM phase-out. The campaign will include TV and radio spots, social media activities, out-of-home advertising, measures for equipment dealers and car dealerships, plus a helpdesk to advise the public. The campaign will run until the final FM switch-off.
The FM transmitters will be switched off by the end of 2024 at the latest. The SSR SRG and the private radio stations are jointly considering an earlier FM switch-off. A staggered phase-out from mid-2022 (SSR SRG stations) and early 2023 (private radio stations) is under discussion.
Informing the public as a goal
The Zurich agency Scholz & Friends was commissioned to carry out the campaign following a public invitation to tender. The costs of around CHF five million for the entire duration will be covered from the proceeds of the radio and television reception fee. The campaign will also benefit from free advertising time on SSR SRG television and private radio stations worth several million CHF.
Address for enquiries
Federal Office of Communications OFCOM
Press service, +41 58 460 55 50, media@bakom.admin.ch
Publisher
Federal Office of Communications
http://www.ofcom.admin.ch
