On December 20, 2018, the European Electronic Communications Code came into force in connection with the transition to digital radio broadcasting. It was decided that the provisions of this Code should be incorporated into the national legislation of European Union (EU) countries by December 21, 2020. According to the Code, all radio receivers in new vehicles across EU countries must be capable of receiving digital radio programs in the DAB+ standard. This decision has already been adopted into the legislation of many European countries, and work is ongoing in others.
Currently, DAB+ digital radio broadcasting is implemented in over 30 countries worldwide.
In addition to European countries, DAB+ broadcasting is carried out in Tunisia (75% coverage), Kuwait (100%), Algeria (7%), and others.
Ukraine – In 2018, DAB+ broadcasting was launched for the first time in Kyiv (14 radio programs, covering 7.14% of the population). Plans are underway to transition to digital radio in Lviv soon.
Russian Federation – The DAB+ standard has been adopted as the digital radio broadcasting standard. Based on the decision of the State Commission on Radio Frequencies dated April 16, 2018, the 174–230 MHz frequency band has been allocated for DAB+ implementation. Test broadcasting was conducted in Moscow.
Republic of Belarus – In early 2019, a frequency-territorial plan for DAB+ broadcasting was developed. In April 2019, test broadcasting was conducted in Minsk.
Republic of Uzbekistan – Trial broadcasting of DAB+ digital radio is planned to begin by the end of this year.
Republic of Kazakhstan – Discussions are ongoing regarding the transition to digital radio broadcasting and the selection of a standard.
Georgia – A strategy for transitioning to DAB+ broadcasting has been developed.
Islamic Republic of Iran – DAB+ broadcasting (16 radio programs) is implemented by IRIB in Tehran, Kerman, and Isfahan.
Republic of Türkiye – In May 2017, TRT broadcasting company initiated test broadcasts using four transmitters in Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa, and Kocaeli (7 radio programs, covering 30% of the population).
Azerbaijan – On August 26, 2019, a DAB+ transmitter was installed for the first time at the Baku Television and Radio Complex, enabling trial broadcasts of 11 local digital radio programs on channel 11B (218.6 MHz) in Baku and the Absheron Peninsula.
As of March 12, 2025, the 1000 W “SYES” DAB+ transmitter used since 2019 has been replaced with a more powerful and modern 3000 W transmitter of the same brand.
Under the Action Plan, a 3000 W “SYES” DAB+ transmitter, along with an antenna-feeder system, was installed at the Gulistan Radio-Television Station in Aghsu District, expanding the digital radio network. This ensures continuous reception of 12 radio programs at 223.936 MHz (SFN mode) in the Central Aran region, including Aghsu, Shamakhi, and Ismayilli, as well as surrounding areas.
For reference, the DAB+ standard is widely used in the EU and other developed countries. In Azerbaijan, efforts to transition to this standard continue to ensure digitalization of broadcasting, efficient frequency use, modern services, and enhanced broadcast security. The plan aims to cover 99.6% of the country’s territory.
Currently, DAB+ radios of various models are sold at several post offices of “Azerpocht” in Baku (postal codes: AZ1000, AZ1001, AZ1017, AZ1073, AZ1124, and AZ1138).
During the transition from FM analog to DAB+ digital radio, factors such as the number of DAB+-equipped vehicles, availability of receivers, and public awareness will be considered.
For technical inquiries regarding DAB+, contact “Teleradio” PU at +994 12 493 22 63