New DAB+ Automatic Safety Alert protects public in emergencies

WorldDAB and Digitalradio Deutschland e.V. have launched the Automatic Safety Alert system after two years of collaboration.

This new innovation in DAB+ digital radio technology aims to protect the public during emergencies by delivering reliable safety alerts without requiring an internet connection.

Listeners will be able to receive alerts even if mobile or internet connections are disrupted. ASA operates automatically in the background, can be regionally adjusted for the location, and has high resilience thanks to the robust DAB+ radio transmission network.

The new standard will be published globally shortly, with initial tests scheduled for the IFA Berlin and the nationwide Warntag in Germany in September. By mid-2025, new generations of DAB+ radios will support the ASA standard.

Public and private radio broadcasters, device manufacturers, and German safety authorities such as the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance have joined forces to create a critical component for crisis communication using DAB+ digital radio.

Additional text and image information accompanying spoken alert messages make warnings clearer and more understandable for affected individuals. International standardisation and resource-efficient programming further ensure the system’s future viability on a global scale.

ASA functionality:

• Alerts: Spoken alert messages convey all relevant information about the emergency.
• Wake-up Function: Radios can be activated by DAB+ signals, crucial for future generations of radio alarm clocks.
• Switch Function: Receivers analyse references to alerts on other radio stations, increasing the flexibility and reach of warnings.
• Location Codes: The DAB+ signal indicates warning areas accurately, ensuring only those in affected regions are notified.
• Synchronisation: Wake-up cycles are very short, reducing power consumption and conserving battery power for portable receivers. Synchronisation with the radio signal ensures that all devices activate simultaneously and receive alerts concurrently.

Jacqueline Bierhorst, President, WorldDAB said: “Radio is consistently named as one of the most trusted media around the world. It’s also rightly recognised for its critical role in times of crisis.

“Now, with this important digital innovation, DAB+ is future proofing this, offering listeners the reassurance of receiving Automatic Safety Alerts, tailored to their location.”