DAB radio takes a hit as online and app listening rises
The number of DAB radio listeners slipped slightly in the first quarter of 2012, dropping to 19.1% of the total (compared to 19.4% in the previous quarter).
This was offset by an increase in online and app listening, up from 3.4% to 3.9%.
Overall, digital platforms accounted for 29.2% of all radio listening, according to the latest Rajar figures released today.
Those listening to digital radio via their TV also dropped marginally to a 4.4% share.
A total of 63.1% of radio listening remains on FM and AM, down from 64.1% in the previous quarter and 65.4% at the start of 2011.
Although the number of people who own a DAB radio at home is now said to be 42.6%, it seems the Government's stated aim of digital radio switchover once 50% of all radio listening is via digital remains a long way off.
Originally digital switchover was supposed to happen by 2013, then 2015, now 2020 looks more realistic.
Follow whathifi.com on Twitter
Comments
Many DAB/FM radios remain tuned to FM (and i'd love to know how many) but their owners seem to get counted as 'happy DAB users' regardless.
It's quite difficult to buy a new radio without DAB, so it can't be assumed that every new DAB/FM radio sold is contributing to the total of 'digital platform' users.
If 2020 is going to be the realistic date, the DAB codec is going to be prehistoric by then!