Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is likely to adopt digital audio broadcasting (DAB) technology for digital radio in the country, reports Bangkok Post.

A study by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recommended DAB+ – the new version of the technology, which has been available in Asia-Pacific for five years with 1.4 million receivers having been sold.

The older version of the technology, DAB has sold 17.5 million receivers but the study says DAB+ receivers are commercially available at lower prices from $30 (1000 Baht) to $578 (19,000 Baht).

The roadmap for digital radio will initially focus on launching trial services by the end of the year.

In the long term, there are plans for regular licensing and provide 36-72 local services in 39 local areas.

The plans await NBTC’s approval as it evaluates the value of frequency to prepare for commercial station auctions.