In this “Future in Focus” series, we’re asking industry thought leaders, executives and engineers to comment on top trends of the past year and what they expect for radio in 2026.
Bob Weller is vice president for spectrum policy at the National Association of Broadcasters.
Radio World: The possible further erosion or loss of C-band spectrum for broadcast use seems to be a real possibility in Washington. What do you foresee happening and what are the ramifications for broadcasters?
Bob Weller: Following the auction of almost 300 MHz from C-band in 2020, many in the industry felt that the remaining 200 MHz would remain dedicated to satellite use for the foreseeable future.
However, pressure on this spectrum has continued to grow globally, and in February, the FCC signaled a shift by opening an inquiry into whether some or all of the remaining C-band should be made available for “more intensive use.”
With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July, the FCC is now required to auction at least 100 MHz of that spectrum for non-satellite use by mid-2027.
Broadcasters (both radio and TV) are among the primary users of C-band, and the remaining satellite capacity simply cannot be further compressed within C-band to absorb another significant loss of spectrum.
Even if the auction is limited to 100 MHz, the impact on broadcasters will be substantial; if more is taken, as the wireless industry is urging, the disruption will be even greater. Many broadcasters are going to have to transition away from C-band, likely either to Ku-band or fiber, or to a hybrid distribution model.
NAB’s priority is to ensure that any such transition is fully funded, and that the new platform(s) delivers the same quality, capability and reliability that broadcasters and their audiences depend on.
RW: Where do we stand with efforts to convince the FCC to raise FM digital power levels? What more are you hoping the commission will do?
Weller: We’re making substantial progress on improving FM digital service. Last September, the FCC adopted rules that allow most FM stations to operate with so-called “asymmetric sidebands,” which effectively enables higher digital power and improved coverage, while still protecting against interference.
Additionally, the FCC simplified the process for stations to operate at digital power levels up to 10% of their analog power, which gives stations greater flexibility and a clearer path to improved digital service.
These updated rules currently apply to stations operating at 106.9 MHz and below. We’re continuing to work on expanding those rules to include stations at 107.1 MHz and above. However, the aviation community has raised concerns about potential interference to avionics systems, and, while we believe that the risk is minimal — particularly because FM digital power is limited to a small fraction of analog power — we take those concerns seriously. That’s why we are actively participating in a joint test and measurement campaign designed to fully address any issues.
That campaign is moving ahead and we’re optimistic that the data will allow all parties to reach agreement within the next year. Our goal is to ensure that FM broadcasters can fully realize the benefits of enhanced digital power while maintaining the highest standards of safety and interference protection.
RW: What other technology or business trends do you think will have the greatest impact in radio in 2026?
Weller: Hybrid distribution — blending over-the-air and IP delivery — will continue to gain momentum. As more listening occurs through connected platforms, automakers will continue to shape how audio is accessed in the vehicle. Some are pursuing more closed or curated environments that could limit listener choice.
NAB’s priority is to ensure that radio remains front-and-center in the auto dashboard. We’re working to preserve an open, reliable and easily accessible experience, while supporting broadcasters as they innovate across both broadcast and digital platforms.
RW: How will our industry be different in 10 years?
Weller: First, local broadcasting will remain the most powerful, resilient and trusted medium in communities across the country. But how it’s produced, delivered and consumed may look much different.
Increased personalization through improved audience data seems likely. And the means of delivery will become increasingly immaterial — listeners won’t think about how they’re receiving audio; it will simply be there — across a wide variety of platforms and locations.
Artificial intelligence will be a key driver of change in the industry. From automating back-end workflows to personalizing content recommendations, AI tools will help stations better engage audiences and operate more efficiently. At the same time, broadcasters will play an important role in pushing back against AI-generated misinformation by leading with trusted, verifiable journalism.
Radio World welcomes comments on this or any story. Email [email protected] with “Letter to the Editor” in the subject field.
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