Digital audio broadcasting network sharing arrangements confirmed

Preparation for the launch of digital audio broadcasting services in Hong Kong has entered the final stage.

Representatives from Digital Broadcasting Corporation Hong Kong Limited, Metro Broadcast Corporation Limited, Phoenix U Radio Limited, and Radio Television Hong Kong signed an agreement setting out the network sharing arrangements at a ceremony witnessed by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So.

According to the network sharing arrangements, the three licensees and RTHK will join in building a DAB network using existing analogue frequency modulation hilltop transmission stations.  They will operate the network together and share the cost of using the facilities.

After the signing ceremony, representatives of the operators jointly hosted a seminar on DAB, which is one of the programmes at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair.  The seminar, targeting manufacturers and suppliers of electronic appliances, is aimed at keeping the trades abreast of the progress of DAB in Hong Kong.  The representatives briefed the seminar participants on the latest developments of DAB as well as their services and programme features.  They also exchanged views on the detailed arrangements for DAB and encouraged the trades to help promote DAB services by launching products to meet customer demand in a timely manner.

The four operators will provide round-the-clock DAB services on a total of 18 channels, three each for Metro and Phoenix U, seven for DBC and five for RTHK, offering a wide variety of programme choices covering music, lifestyle, current affairs, finance, community and art and culture. Formal services are expected to be launched late this year or early next year.

Compared to analogue radio services, DAB provides better sound quality, more stable reception and a greater diversity of programmes.  It also supports the transmission of digital images (ancillary visual service) to the screens of DAB receivers.  With suitable digital radios, listeners will be able to view news, weather and traffic information, and information about songs on the radio's screen.

Join Hong Kong Business community
Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you dight and create an advertising campaign, in print and digital, on this website and in print magazine.

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!

Exclusives

Hong Kong Residency rule could boost office sector
The ultra-rich are also expected to set up family offices in the city.
Allegrow Biotech engineers technology to activate immune cells
The startup’s invention can be used to treat and potentially cure diseases like cancer.
Healthcare
Renminbi rise to fuel Bank of China HK’s growth
The lender expects the currency to be used more often in cross-border deals.
Retail Banking