The government of the United Kingdom has launched a review of the nation’s radio industry, including whether the nation should transition away from FM broadcasting.
The goal of the review is “to ensure [radio] continues to flourish as audiences increasingly shift to digital platforms.”
The Department for Culture, Media & Sport said the government “is committed to helping U.K. radio to thrive and retain status as most trusted form of media, amid changing listener habits.”
It noted that nearly three-quarters of U.K. radio listening is now on digital or online platforms.
“The government will work with key industry partners to help manage this transition.”
It said the review will examine digital shifts, market trends and emerging technologies including the use of AI.
“Radio remains the most trusted form of media in the U.K., with more than 85% of U.K. adults tuning in every week,” it said in the announcement.
“From national and international headlines to crucial local updates, radio stations provide timely, reliable content that reflects the diverse fabric of the U.K.’s communities. They offer companionship and social connection to millions of people.”
But almost 75% of that listening is on platforms other than FM and AM.
The review will explore whether there should be a “managed transition” away from FM in the 2030s.
It asks about the potential impact of a decision on the future of Digital Terrestrial TV (DTT) on radio distribution.
And it will look into the role of emerging technologies, including AI.
“A previous Radio and Audio Review in 2021 concluded that FM should continue until at least 2030, but recommended that in 2026 government and industry revisit a potential analog switch-off,” the department said, citing “broad support across the industry for this further review.”
The review will investigate scenarios for the consumption of U.K. radio and audio content on all platforms into the 2030s, “taking into account likely models of future listener behavior, market trends and technical developments.”
It will consider the impact of these scenarios on current and future distribution strategies for the U.K. radio industry and on the future availability of U.K. radio services for listeners on all platforms.
It will make recommendations on the distribution of radio services and provide advice to government on ways of strengthening the viability of U.K. radio until the early 2040s.
The report is due in late 2026.
