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BERLIN — Schleswig-Holstein, Germany’s northernmost state, will transition from FM to DAB+ digital radio by 2031. This decision, made by private and public radio stations, the state government and the state media authority, aims to enhance radio quality and expand programming options.
The decision comes amid strategic shifts in broadcasting consumption in Germany. The “Audio Trends 2023” report shows a 19% rise in DAB+ radios in German households, now at 283 million.
The transition will occur in phases from 2025 to 2031. By mid-2031, FM broadcasting will be completely phased out in Schleswig-Holstein with all radio programs accessible through DAB+ and online platforms. This move follows the digital transition in television and the growing use of digital devices like smartphones and smart speakers.
The collaboration between broadcasters and the state aims to offer high-quality radio with better sound clarity and additional features, aligning with the broader European trend of adopting DAB+. In addition to the benefits offered by DAB+, the switchover will allow over 55 digital radio stations in Schleswig-Holstein, far more than on FM.
Key milestones and stakeholders
The transition in Schleswig-Holstein involves several key waypoints:
2025: Commercial stations like RADIO BOB! rockt Schleswig-Holstein, delta radio and Antenne Sylt will migrate to DAB+ and IP web radio. Deutschlandradio will shut off 16 FM frequencies.
2026: Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) will enhance its DAB+ network, improving coverage and reducing the energy consumption of FM transmitters.
2028: NDR will expand the DAB+ network to cover additional regions.
2031: Completing the transition with all broadcasters, including Radio Schleswig-Holstein (R.SH), moving entirely to DAB+.
The transition involves coordination between public broadcasters like NDR and Deutschlandradio, private broadcasters, and the state government through Digitalradio Deutschland e.V., which manages communication and strategic planning.
Consumer impact and support
Since the end of 2020, all new cars in Germany must include DAB+ radios. Currently, 41% of cars in Schleswig-Holstein are equipped with DAB+ radios. Affordable home radio options are available, starting at around €30. Listeners can also enjoy programs via the internet on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs or smart speakers.
The digital switchover plan addresses potential coverage gaps by installing additional transmitters before phasing out FM services, ensuring all regional programs remain accessible.
Broadcasters in Schleswig-Holstein will inform listeners about the transition through on-air announcements, social media updates and local events. Retail staff in electronics stores will receive training to assist consumers with digital radios. Specific information for Schleswig-Holstein can be found at the state’s DAB+ website: dabplus.de/sh.
The author is a member of WorldDAB’s Steering Board and is the Director of the German DAB+ digital radio marketing body, Digitalradio Büro Deutschland, which oversees the marketing and promotion of DAB+ in Germany. Prior to this, he was head of marketing and communications at the German national radio broadcaster, Deutschlandradio. Previously, he was head of public relations at the Berlin-Brandenburg branch of ADAC, the German automobile association. He was responsible for corporate communications at ISP Strato AG, one of the world’s largest web-hosting companies. He has extensive experience in the radio industry, having been chief editor and director of audio and Internet at SWR3 Börsenman and managing editor at BLR in Bavaria.
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