The Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority of Estonia (TTJA) announced that AS Levira has been selected as the winner of the public tender for digital radio frequency licenses (DAB+), which was launched in January 2025. After receiving the frequency license, Levira must build three DAB+ broadcasting networks within a year. In the future, radio programs will be available over the air in digital radio format, in addition to FM frequencies, further enriching Estonian media landscape.
With the first network, Levira must cover at least 85.59% of the population (the coverage area of this network is shown in the photo). The second network must cover 73.45%, and the third 72.16% of the population.
DAB+ coverage with the first network
In its application, AS Levira has estimated that the commercial digital radio service will be broadcast starting in September 2025. The rollout of DAB+ will proceed as follows:
Koeru, Valgjärve, and Tallinn TV Tower (September 2025)
Haapsalu and Pärnu (October 2025)
Tartu (November 2025)
Pehka, Orissaare, and Kohtla-Nõmme (January 2026)
In January, TTJA announced a public competition for frequency licenses to provide digital radio services. The competition covered three frequency licenses in the 174–225 MHz band for DAB+ nationwide use.
Digital radio, which is aired in many European countries, allows multiple programs to be transmitted on a single frequency channel. These programs can have different audio qualities and can also provide enhanced information services (text messages, images, and other data). DAB+ receivers, which offer better sound quality, have become increasingly popular among consumers. For example, all new cars sold after December 20, 2020, must be equipped with digital radio reception capability.
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