Over 53 million DAB receivers sold worldwide

WorldDAB has released the latest version of its infographic covering DAB receiver sales and household penetration for markets in Europe and Asia Pacific up to the end of 2016.

It indicates that more than 53 million DAB receivers, including automotive line-fit, were sold globally.

The growth was accredited to the increased number of units fitted in cars. Leading the way is Norway (98% of new cars with DAB), UK (87%) and Switzerland (66%), with Australia mustering up 34%.

Coverage for digital radio has also reached a new peak with most countries seeing a year-on-year increase in total DAB/DAB+ network coverage from 2013.

DAB is currently in five metropolitan areas in Australia and covers 65% of the population.

Despite claims that further DAB expansion is on the horizons, certain regions appear to be going the other way. Hong Kong’s executive council is pulling the plug on a host of digital radio services across the territory.

Along with the recent exit of private broadcasters Phoenix U Radio, Metro Broadcast and DBC in Hong Kong, sole remaining digital service RTHK will cease operation in six months time.