What is DAB+
A new form of digital radio broadcasting is now available in the UK: but what is DAB plus - and what do you need to listen?
So, what's DAB+ all about? Here's a simple guide.
For a more technical view of DAB+, discover more about DAB+ in the UK.
What is DAB+?
DAB+ is a new form of DAB Digital Radio broadcasting. DAB+ uses a different way of transmitting the audio.
A DAB+ radio will receive old-fashioned DAB signals, as well as new DAB+ stations.
How can I tell if a radio works with DAB+?
- Look for a DAB+ logo, or a Digital Radio 'tick', on the box or on the device itself.
- If it is clearly for sale in other European countries (the box has German, Danish or Norwegian on it) it'll almost certainly get DAB+
- If it is built-in to a car and the car was manufactured since 2014, it'll almost certainly support DAB+
To check for certain, turn the radio on and look for "Fun Kids UK" or "Magic Chilled". If you can hear these stations, your radio supports DAB+
Why is a DAB+ radio a good thing?
DAB+ lets radio broadcasters fit more stations on transmitters. That means more choice of radio stations, and can also mean better sound quality.
Are they using DAB+ anywhere else?
DAB+ is the standard form of digital radio broadcasting in many countries in Europe and Australia. The UK is relatively unusual in still broadcasting most services in the older DAB standard.
What happens to my old DAB radio?
With millions of older DAB radios still in use across the UK, and a relatively low replacement cycle, DAB will still be broadcast for years to come. But perhaps now's the time to upgrade: you'll find more stations available now and in the future.