Two Scandanavian broadcasters have become the first commercial broadcasters to back the EBU campaign to improve access to radio by taking a hybrid digital approach marketed as Euro-Chip.

The Modern Times Group (MTG), Sweden and P4 Radio Hele, Norway have joined 11 leading public service broadcasters in signing a Memorandum of Understanding promoting the installation of analogue and digital reception devices in all radio sets and mobile devices to enable audiences to receive broadcast services everywhere at no incremental cost. Consumers would enjoy free-to-air radio services without the need to pay for broadband reception.

Head of Radio Christian Vogg said the development sends a clear signal to the industry across Europe that the decision has been made: terrestrial broadcasting will go digital.

"Bringing together different interest groups is an important milestone in the campaign," said Mr Vogg. "Norway will be the first country in Europe to switch-off FM. The change-over is scheduled for 2017-2019. Support from commercial broadcasters is recognition that Euro-Chip is about giving radio a future in the digital economy."

Meanwhile, talks are continuing with car and mobile device manufacturers as well as with mobile network operators on developing a radio reception chip suitable for mobile devices and cars.

Mr Vogg said that it had become clear that despite large investments by mobile network operators in the long term evolution (LTE) mobile standard, that neither consumers nor broadcasters were able, or willing to pay the anticipated high cost of a mobile-only solution.

Moreover he said, studies demonstrated the weakness of mobile networks in emergency situations.

"Recent conferences on digital terrestrial broadcasting emphasize the prospect of a hybrid solution, combining the benefits of broadcast and broadband in order to create a win-win situation for all," said Mr Vogg.