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: 2) by nethead on Saturday January 07 2017, @05:44AM
Tell me about it. I live in a native fishing village north of Seattle. I have to listen to the Seahawks games on AM radio.
The one TV in the bedroom is hooked to a 5 year old Mint Linux box that we "stream" TPB from.
At least I don't waste a lot of time in the summer watching the Mariners crash and burn yet another year.
How did my SN UID end up over 3 times my /. UID?