SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – The worldwide digital radio market is ready to take off, with unit sales projected to increase more than three-fold from 2006 to 2011, says the latest In-Stat report.
The high-tech market research firm points to several recent developments, including the availability of the new, enhanced Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB)+ standard in the
UK, an increase in the number of DAB trials throughout Europe and Asia, and the introduction of mobile devices with integrated DAB support.
“From a regional standpoint, DAB technology is close to mass-market appeal in the UK, and is the pervasive digital radio technology throughout Europe,” said In-Stat analyst Stephanie Ethier. “Satellite radio remains the leading platform for digital radio in the US, despite notable progress in HD Radio awareness.”
In-Stat’s research indicates the global market for digital radio will grow from 9 million units in 2006 to almost 32 million units in 2011.
A consumer survey by the firm showed that in 2005, 57% of respondents in the U.S. said they were aware of HD Radio. This percentage had grown significantly to 77%
by 2007.
www.in-stat.com
