Digital radio compulsory in French cars

The French government has introduced a new law, making it compulsory to include a digital radio set in all cars sold from September 1, 2013. A year earlier, all other radios must be able to handle digital radio.

France has opted for DMB as its standard for digital radio. DMB was originally designed for mobile television and is part of the European Eureka 147 family, which also includes DAB and DAB+. While the U.K, Denmark and Norway have already established DAB, the more efficient DAB+ version is the choice of countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and Australia.

In April, it will be announced which companies will get the first French digital licenses. In June, the government is set to put forward a more detailed plan for the further expansion of digital radio in France.