LG Electronics has unveiled the world’s first smartphone to feature DAB+ at Radiodays Europe 2016 in Paris, the world’s largest radio conference.
Consumers in Australia, Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and the UK will be the first to be able to buy the LG Stylus 2 with DAB+. The phone will carry a RRP tag of EUR299.
The LG Stylus 2 features a DAB+ chipset and an exclusive app that allows customers to enjoy digital radio broadcasts out of the box. A technical interface also enables broadcasters to develop their own tailored apps in which internet services complement broadcast radio.
Users will be able to access more radio channels with DAB+ than traditional FM. Unlike regular internet radio apps that stream large amounts of data, DAB+ radio provides reception for free, as it uses no data, but of course only in those countries where DAB+ is available on the air.
“We are taking a proactive approach towards the fast-paced technological shift to digital broadcasting with DAB+ to deliver a new paradigm of experiences through the smartphone,” said Juno Cho, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company.
“With its large 5.7-inch screen, 1 watt speaker and 3,000mAh removable battery, the LG Stylus 2 is the perfect device to enjoy rich, multimedia content.”
“We are proud to help introduce a game-changing smartphone with an innovative company like LG. The combination of broadcasting and the internet opens up a vast array of possibilities for the future,” said Gunnar Garfors, president of IDAG.
“Consumers get new functionalities and media companies reach new audiences with more broadcasted free-to-air radio.”