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 Uncle_Al on Saturday January 07 2017, @04:11AM
"digital networks can carry more radio channels."
so broadcasters get X number more channels for the same license, just like digital TV did in the US
sounds like a great deal to me.. for EXISTING LICENSE HOLDERS
wonder if they would be so happy if they had to GIVE those extra slots to others
it also drives the little guys out who can't afford the upgrade (as in the non-religious non-comm bottom of the 'dial' folks)