Antenne Sylt: VHF phase-out by 2031 – digitalization as an opportunity!

Antenne Sylt: VHF phase-out by 2031 – digitalization as an opportunity!

Although Antenne Sylt was originally scheduled to switch off its analog VHF frequencies (88.1 MHz in Westerland and 100.3 MHz in Niebüll/Süderlügum) on June 30, 2025, the Media Council of the Hamburg/Schleswig-Holstein Media Authority (MA HSH) has made a significant decision. This has extended the VHF allocation for Antenne Sylt until July 2031 in order to be able to continue to offer local content during the switch to digital transmission. This measure was described as part of a special transitional arrangement that allows Antenne Sylt to expand its DAB+ offering and give listeners planning security, reports radio scene.

This decision must also be seen in the context of the complete digitalization of radio broadcasting in Schleswig-Holstein, which has already been consolidated by a roadmap to switch off FM by 2031 at the latest. While the phase-out of VHF continues to progress as planned - this also includes the shutdown of Deutschlandfunk and a Klassikradio antenna site on the same date - Antenne Sylt remains a special case due to its local relevance and simultaneous digital expansion. The station can also be received on DAB+ (channel 11D) in the Flensburg area.

The challenge of digital transformation

In a world in which the media landscape is becoming increasingly complex, a recent study shows that the digitization rate in radio is now an impressive 75 percent. Around 49 million people in Germany use digital offerings, which include the most popular formats DAB+ and web radio. This development no longer represents radio as just a simple entertainment medium. Rather, it is perceived as a curated medium that inspires through editorial leadership and a personal approach. Listening to the radio is described as relaxing and easy, with DAB+ being positioned as a reliable companion in a confusing media landscape the media institutions.

The longing for simplicity, reliability and closeness is palpable. At a time when consumers are overwhelmed by a flood of streaming services, people are looking for guidance. Radio offers a “one-to-one” experience that impresses with authentic communication.

A look into the future

But the future also brings challenges. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly present in the audio sector. For the first time, fully automated, AI-controlled radio stations are on the market and are already being used for automated moderation and text-to-speech conversions. This raises questions about accountability and transparency; The media authorities set guardrails here to prevent manipulation in the formation of public opinion.

The developments in the radio landscape are exciting and show that, despite the challenges and digitalization, the heart of radio - the personal approach and the curated medium - continues to be very popular. The future sounds promising, and listeners can stay excited to see how the offering will develop in the coming years. Further information and exciting content is available dabplus.de available.