Germany's Local Radio Faces FM Shutdown as DAB+ Takes Over by 2026

FM's slow fade-out leaves local broadcasters scrambling. Will DAB+ save Germany's grassroots radio—or leave some listeners behind?

, and Administrator

2026 February 6 . 1:29 PM

1 min read

The image shows an old fashioned wooden radio sitting on top of a white table. The radio has a dial... — The image shows an old fashioned wooden radio sitting on top of a white table. The radio has a dial with numbers on it, giving it a classic and timeless look.

Germany's Local Radio Faces FM Shutdown as DAB+ Takes Over by 2026

Non-commercial local radio stations in Germany are facing changes to how they broadcast. Several have already switched to DAB+ technology, while others must prepare for the end of FM distribution. The shift comes as authorities seek cost savings, leaving some stations uncertain about their future reach.

In Hesse, seven non-commercial local radio stations (NKLs) will lose their FM distribution contracts by June 30, 2026. The Media Authority of Hesse has decided to cut costs by ending FM transmission for these broadcasters. However, all seven have been using DAB+ channels since early 2024, allowing them to maintain or even expand their audience.

Other regions have also embraced DAB+ for local stations. Berlin and Brandenburg, for example, host multiple NKLs on the platform, including FR-BB, 24/3 FM, ALEX Berlin, and Radio Slubfurt. Hessen's Radio Rüsselsheim will join DAB+ on channel 12C+ from June 2026, while Niedersachsen's Radio Aktiv in Hameln plans to follow soon. Despite these moves, FM remains important for listeners with older cars that lack DAB+ receivers.

The broader financial situation adds pressure. The public broadcasting fee, which funds many stations, will not rise until January 1, 2027. This freeze has created budget gaps, forcing authorities to reconsider how resources are allocated. Meanwhile, the future of freed-up FM frequencies remains unclear—some may go to commercial broadcasters, while others could stay unused.

The transition to DAB+ is underway, but challenges remain for stations relying on FM. Non-commercial broadcasters must adapt to new distribution methods while ensuring they still reach all listeners. The coming years will determine how these changes affect local radio's role in Germany.