James Cridland’s International Radio Trends: FM switchoff in the UK; and a nerdy look at AM transmission characteristics Inbox

by James Cridland

James Cridland returns with one of his more technical columns, in which he closes the can of worms opened in last week’s coverage of a frequency switch at 4BC in Brisbane, Cridland’s home base. Lots of graphics. But first, the UK’s decision about FM switch-off, a new rule for smart speakers, the geography of Wales according to TuneIn, and the new BBC logo. Continue Reading

James Cridland’s International Radio Trends — Why the words we use matter

by James Cridland

James Cridland returns with a richly informative newsletter about radio around the world. In this edition: A new and fascinating study of language use in podcasting, which James connects to how to articulate concepts in radio. And there’s also a similar analysis of on-air speaking habits. Links to both. And much, much more. (Because one “much” wouldn’t be enough.) Continue Reading

Jeff Vidler: Increased Data Privacy Controls – New Opportunities for Audio

by Jeff Vidler
Guest columnist and Signal Hill Insights President Jeff Vidler discusses an emerging trend in the underlying technology of digital audio advertising. “The sands are shifting under the feet of digital marketing as we march towards an online future that promises less personal tracking,” he writes. What is the opportunity for audio? Continue Reading

James Cridland’s International Radio Trends — Switzerland: To FM or not to FM?

by James Cridland

James Cridland returns with a richly informative newsletter about radio around the world. In this edition: As one European country readies its abandonment of FM radio, a campaign to rescue it begins. BBC Sounds releases Q2 stats. And much more. Continue Reading

David Oxenford: Copyright Royalty Board Decision on Webcasting Royalties Expected by June 14 – What Will the Streaming Rates for 2021-2025 Be?

by David Oxenford

This vital guest column by David Oxenford summarizes the royalty rate arguments put before the U.S. Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) for a ruling expected by mid-June. In normal times that ruling would have been delivered before January 1, but this every-five-year cycle has been delayed by Covid. The outcome will chart the financial course for webcasters of all sizes in the 2021-2025 period.
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Nearly all Australians know about podcasting; 37% listen monthly. Comparing Aus/U.S. stats.

As Edison Research releases its 2021 Infinite Dial Australia (sponsored by Commercial Radio Australia, Southern Cross Austereo, LiSTNR, and Triton Digital), there are notable comparisons to be made with the U.S. version of this benchmark annual report. Click for details and graphs. Continue Reading