South Africa's latest trial of digital sound broadcasting - using DRM technology - is set to be launched next month.

TechCentral

South Africa's DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale) trial broadcasts are set to launch in February 2025, following regulatory approval from Icasa. The eight-month trial will test emergency warning systems, distance learning, multi-channel broadcasting, and energy efficiency from a Johannesburg transmitter. Initial participants include Hot 102.7FM and Radio Pulpit. DRM can operate in guard bands between existing FM stations, addressing spectrum congestion in Gauteng. South Africa has adopted a dual-standard approach supporting both DRM and DAB technologies, with DRM suited for community stations and metro-focused commercial operators, while DAB targets large multiplexed broadcasters like SABC.

South African digital radio trial is about to go live