UK Players Unite To Launch First DAB Digital Radio EPG
Capital Radio and UBC Media have signed an agreement with Chrysalis Radio to launch what they claim is the world’s first DAB digital radio electronic programme guide (EPG).
Initially the EPG will be launched on both the CE London and MXR regional multiplexes and will carry all Capital and Chrysalis Radio services. All future Capital Digital and MXR multiplexes will also carry the service, bringing its potential audience to over 22.5 million.
Listeners to Capital Radio Group stations and Chrysalis Radio’s DAB digital stations will be able to access text, graphical and interactive programme-related content directly from any EPG-enabled DAB digital receiver. The EPG also provides a schedule of future programmes, enabling listeners to record their favourite shows.
Simon Cole, chief executive of UBC Media, said: “We have always seen the electronic programme guide playing a critical role in the way people will consume digital radio on devices in the future. The software now being adopted by the industry’s leading players, will give consumers a rich experience which will completely transform radio listening.”
The software for managing and broadcasting the EPG has been developed by UBC Media’s technology division, Unique Interactive, which will also be responsible for maintaining and supporting the services across the network.
Earlier this year UBC Media secured the contract to provide digital radio software to SMG’s Virgin Radio Group. The software will allow Virgin to send text messages and SMS ads to screens on DAB digital radio receivers. It will also link to SMG’s internal systems enabling song and artist information, news headlines and any other dynamic content to be streamed in sync with radio broadcasts (see UBC To Provide Digital Radio Software To Virgin).
Capital Radio: 020 7766 6000 www.capitalradiogroup.co.uk Chrysalis: 020 7221 2213 www.chrysalis.com UBC Media Group: 020 7453 1600 www.ubcmedia.com
Recent Radio Stories from NewsLine Real Radio Launches Major TV Ad Campaign BBC Launches New Digital Talk Radio Station Opus Poaches Cohen To Head Sales Team
Subscribers can access ten years of media news and analysis in the Archive