As screens take up more space in automobile dashboards, WorldDAB is reminding broadcasters of the importance of proper metadata use to improve a station’s visual appearance.
“We want radio station managers and technical teams to make sure their station is looking its best in the car,” stated Patrick Hannon, president of WorldDAB.
Metadata connects visual information, text and graphics with a station’s audio output, allowing information about the station, artist, album and presenter to be displayed while a station is playing.
[Read more stories about metadata for radio here.]
From 2015 to 2020, the average size of in-car video screens has grown from 6.4 inches to 7.3 inches, according to IHS Markit. By 2026, the research company expects 9 inch or larger screens to make up 41% of the market and for the number of auto models with 15 inch or larger screens to triple.
“With broadcast radio facing increased competition in the dashboard, it’s vitally important for broadcasters to supply the right metadata with their audio,” stated Hannon. “This will ensure the logo and now playing information is provided, helping listeners to find their favorite stations and have the best possible in-car experience.”
WorldDAB offers via is website several resources to help broadcasters assess and refine their metadata strategies.
WorldDAB is bringing up the metadata issue ahead of its annual summit, which will be held on Nov. 17 in London. Metadata and DAB radio in the car are key topics on the summit agenda.
[For more on radio’s in-car future, check out our ebook “Radio’s Call to Action: DTS AutoStage”]