Norway is set to become the first nation to start switching off its FM radio network next week, in a risky and unpopular leap to digital technology that will be closely watched by other countries considering whether to follow suit.
Critics say the government is rushing the move and many people may miss warnings on emergencies that have until now been broadcast via the radio. Of particular concern are the two million cars on Norway's roads that are not equipped with digital audio broadcasting (DAB) receivers, they say.
Sixty-six per cent of Norwegians oppose switching off FM, with just 17 per cent in favour and the rest undecided, according to an opinion poll published by the daily Dagbladet last month.
Nevertheless, parliament gave the final go-ahead for the move last month, swayed by the fact that digital networks can carry more radio channels.
Should there be a push to switch off FM radio in order to 'persuade' users to upgrade their receiving equipment? Or should the change be implemented much more slowly to enable FM radios to be replaced as they age? How would you do it?
(Score: 0, Insightful) by Anonymous Coward on Saturday January 07 2017, @04:03AM
So brave, standing up to them like that. But it would be better if you killed yourself.
(Score: 1, Funny) by Anonymous Coward on Saturday January 07 2017, @04:08AM
But if I kill myself then who will continue my hate campaign against soystain corporate fake news and all the closed minded moronic idiots who read it?
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Saturday January 07 2017, @07:04AM
Aristarchus, he's incapable of comprehending even remedial English. I'm sure he'll pick up the torch.