The UK Radio Authority is now inviting applications for the license for the only national commercial digital multiplex, a block of digital frequencies, marking the beginning of the move of commercial radio in the UK to the digital arena. The multiplex will be capable of handling between six and eight digital radio channels offering near CD-quality sound. Some of the digital capacity is reserved for the simulcasting of three existing UK national radio services: Classic FM, Virgin Radio and Talk Radio. Initial licenses will be granted for a 12 year period. Content is likely to include broadcast data services such as traffic information and electronic publishing. Users will need to buy digital radio receivers to take advantage of the broadcasts.
