Schleswig-Holstein in the RadioWandel: FM is gradually switched off!

Schleswig-Holstein in the RadioWandel: FM is gradually switched off!

Güby, Deutschland - In Schleswig-Holstein, the changeover of analog FM radio stations to digital formats is in full swing. Private and public service broadcasters have agreed on a roadmap that aims to gradually switch off the FM technology by 2031. According to digital television already postponed its VHF frequency at the Güby location, and also the program distribution over FM in the Itzehoe region was discontinued on July 1, 2025. Deutschlandradio has also set the analogous distribution at nine locations, which underlines the trend towards digital transmission.

As the media/Schleswig-Holstein media institution informs, this reduction in FM locations is promoted as part of a comprehensive digitization campaign. In Schleswig-Holstein, over 55 programs can now be received in a clear sound quality via DAB+ and IP web radio-more than about old analog technology. The change to digital offers is seen by the broadcasters as an opportunity to further develop the radio. The geographical and topographical properties of Schleswig-Holstein are also ideal for the digitization of radio.

Future of the radio in sight

2025 is a crucial year for digitization of radio. Radio Bob!, Delta Radio and Antenne Sylt completely switch to DAB+. NDR will further expand DAB+ supply and plan to put new channels into operation in the coming years. The DAB+ reception quality should be increased noticeably by 2026. At the same time, the electricity consumption among the remaining FM channels is reduced, which benefits the environment.

For N-Joy, there are complete changes to DAB+ in Niebüll, Garding, Husum and Helgoland by 2027. Deutschlandradio plans to switch to digital transmission technology from mid-2025, 16 FM channels, and will also complete this initiative by 2031 at the latest. The Open Channel Schleswig-Holstein will start with Simulcast in the near future and then also switch to DAB+.

radio stations rely on digitization

Schleswig-Holstein shows how important digital transformation is for the media landscape. The large number of programs already offered digitally - around 300 regionally different - offer the opportunity for an increased variety of media in the country. Currently, 35% of households in Schleswig-Holstein have access to DAB+, and the trend clearly points upwards. With a well -developed network and DAB+ radios, which are already available from 30 euros, the requirements are well given.

Another advantage of this change is in crisis communication: DAB+ can transmit important warning messages, for example, for floods and storms, which underlines the safety aspect of digital technology. You can also find out on this topic on Schleswig-Holstein.de as well as on NDR.de , where updated information can be found.