Radio receivers break the $100 barrier

iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of digital HD Radio technology for AM and FM broadcasting, has broken the all-important $100 price point for HD Radio receivers, reports Market Watch.

The new under $100 HD Radio devices from Coby, iLuv, JVC, Pioneer, Radiosophy and Sony will see home, office and automotive uses.

The latest prices represent a 30% reduction compared to a year ago. In that same time frame, HD Radio receivers have added a number of new and exclusive features, including iTunes Tagging.

The rapid growth in the consumption of broadcast content on devices other than traditional TV screens is reflected across the exhibition, conference and business briefing programmes at IBC2008, says Broadcast Buyer.

As the leading international broadcast technology exhibition, IBC covers all aspects of the creation, management and delivery of content. IBC2008 is to be held in Amsterdam in September.

Recent years have seen a steady rise in attendance from the telecoms sector as carriers and mobile operators seek a better understanding of the broadcast sector and evaluate IPTV and mobile multimedia revenues as a supplement to stagnant or declining voice ARPU.

Wave Media's application for a 12-year licence to establish and maintain a 24-hour Cantonese AM radio channel has been approved, says Infrastructure and Logistics.

The Commerce & Economic Development Bureau said the launch of a new sound broadcasting service will benefit the local broadcasting industry and the economy. It will introduce more competition in the radio market, increase programming choices for the audience, promote research and development of new broadcasting technology, create job opportunities and train new talent.

The application meets statutory requirements, including those relating to the Hong Kong residency requirement and cross-media ownership restrictions.