The future of DAB+ broadcasting, radio regulation and in-car listening will be discussed at the WorldDAB Summit 2026 in Vienna next month.
The annual event will bring together broadcasters, regulators and technology specialists to examine the continued international expansion of DAB+ and the challenges facing radio as listening habits change.
An opening debate titled “Why Radio Wins” will feature WorldDAB President Jacqueline Bierhorst, Corinna Drumm from the Association of Austrian Private Broadcasters and Wouter Quartier, Head of Radio at the European Broadcasting Union.
The discussion, moderated by UK DAB+ multiplex operator Matt Deegan, will explore radio’s position in a multiplatform environment, the continuing role of broadcast transmission and how the industry can fund its future.
Jacqueline will also provide an international update covering DAB+ trials, launches and expansion in Ireland, Spain, Kenya and Thailand.
Around one third of countries worldwide are now actively involved with DAB+, while Poland has recently invited applications for national multiplexes and Germany has introduced permanent Automatic Safety Alert broadcasts.
Global sales of DAB and DAB+ receivers have now exceeded 166 million units, according to figures confirmed at WorldDAB Automotive in June.
Austria’s digital radio market will also feature prominently, including the growth of commercial DAB+ services and public broadcaster ORF’s pilot broadcast of Hitradio Ö3.
Digital Radio Austria will share its experience of promoting DAB+, while Markus Horvath from MediaMarkt will explain the retailer’s decision to switch its in-store radio to digital broadcasting.
Other sessions will examine the proposed EU Digital Networks Act, including efforts to secure guaranteed FM and DAB+ receiver integration in vehicles.
Speakers will also discuss government policies supporting digital radio, the introduction of permanent safety alert services and how broadcasters are developing new stations and brands using DAB+.
Julia Nageler, presenter of the Bayern 3 YouTube programme DSDN, will return as moderator.
Bernie O’Neill, Project Director at WorldDAB, said: “Vienna is the perfect location for this year’s Summit: a dynamic DAB+ market with new and trial services on air and strong promotion for the platform.”
The Summit will take place at Meliá Vienna in DC Tower 1, which also serves as a DAB+ transmission site for the Austrian capital.
