The global market for digital radio receivers was 9 million units in 2006, an increase of 61% over the previous year.
That’s according to research firm In-Stat, which found that satellite radio “continues to be the pervasive form of digital radio in the U.S., with satellite radio receiver shipments expected to outpace terrestrial HD Radio receiver shipments again in 2007.”
In other markets, most notably in the U.K., it said, terrestrial DAB is driving digital radio shipments.
“In-Stat’s latest primary research data shows that 57% of respondents were aware of HD Radio in 2005. In 2007, this percentage jumped significantly to 77% of respondents.
“While satellite radio remains the leading platform for digital radio in the U.S.,” it continued, “we believe that this increased consumer awareness of HD Radio will be a primary driver of HD Radio receiver shipment growth.”
Additional factors contributing to worldwide market growth include falling receiver prices, an increase in the amount of digital programming, more digital radio promotion and advertising, and the “enhanced functionality of digital radio receivers.”
