Behind the Microphone: Key Takeaways from Xperi’s Session at Radiodays Europe 2025

Radiodays Europe 2025 in Athens was a hub of innovation and insights, showcasing the latest advancements in broadcasting. Xperi’s session, titled ‘Behind the Microphone: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow’, provided an in-depth look into how some of the most innovative broadcasters have navigated the past 25 years of technological shifts, content distribution changes, and evolving user behaviours. Moderated by Xperi’s Joe D’Angelo, SVP, Broadcast Radio & Digital Audio, the session featured Christian Schalt, Chief Digital Officer at RTL Radio Deutschland, Tobias Nielsen, SVP Digital at Bauer Media Group, Denmark, and Jason Bryant, Founder of Nation Broadcasting, UK.

These were the key takeaways:

1. The Competitive Landscape of Digital Audio

Digital audio platforms now boast over 900 million registered users and generate nearly $42 billion in revenue. Traditional broadcasters must understand this landscape and adapt their strategies to stay relevant. The depth of resources that vertically integrated companies deploy to attract listeners is immense.

2. Content and Distribution Strategies

Broadcasters are revolutionising content delivery through digital apps like Nation Player, which offers nearly a hundred services, including third-party content. A wide content offering is crucial to leverage market opportunities. Controlling content within an ecosystem, as seen with RTL’s streaming service RTL+, which combines video, TV, and audio content, is a strategic advantage.

3. The Role of Connected Cars

Connected car technology is transforming radio broadcasting. Platforms like DTS AutoStage enhance the in-car radio experience, making it easier for listeners to access brands. Hybrid radio, which combines digital and broadcast elements, is essential for maintaining and growing in-car audiences.

4. Data and Analytics: The New Frontier

Real-time data is transforming content planning and audience engagement. Contextual data enhances user experiences and ad targeting, while real-time feedback is invaluable for content planning. Streaming data informs strategic decisions, such as expanding radio stations based on listener locations.

5. AI: Friend or Foe?

AI offers numerous opportunities in ad tech and content production. It is already being used for research, programming, and generating content drafts. AI’s potential to enhance efficiency and creativity is immense, but human oversight remains crucial.

Radiodays Europe 2025 provided a wealth of insights into the future of radio broadcasting. From the competitive digital landscape to the transformative power of data and AI, the need for innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry is clear.

Watch the full recording here:

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