FáilteDAB are excited to announce the extension and expansion of its DAB+ trial networks in Ireland. With the support and license approval of the Irish media and communications authorities Coimisiún na Meán and COMREG, FáilteDAB will extend its current trial network FáilteDAB Mux 1 for another 12 months while also adding significant coverage to the DAB+ footprint with the rollout of its FáilteDAB Mux 2 network.
The Fáilte DAB Mux 1 currently transmits 29 audio content services to the Greater Leinster area. The FáilteDAB Mux 2 network, planned to launch in April 2026, will provide extensive coverage beyond the footprint covered by the FáilteDAB Mux 1 network while providing new capacity for providers to trial content services on this exciting platform. The FáilteDAB Mux 2 network will be powered by up to nine additional high powered transmission sites, strategically located to deliver a strong DAB signal to all or parts of the North and South Midlands, the Southeast, Cork, Limerick, Clare, Galway and Mayo areas.
FáilteDAB invites content providers to participate in the FáilteDAB Mux 2 trial network and will conduct a short expression of interest process to aid in maximising the provider and user experience of this trial. Expression of Interest must be submitted by 12 noon on 16th February 2026. The expression of interest form and additional information is available on the FáilteDAB website https://failtedab.ie/eoi
Commenting on the announcement, Stephen Foley director of FáilteDAB said that
“ He was delighted that the DAB+ trial was continuing and expanding to cover more than 85% of the population”.
Neil O’ Brien, Head of Multiplex Operations at Fáilte DAB, welcomed the opportunities for existing and new audio content providers to trial, and develop services in the Fáilte DAB Mux 2 coverage area. He further added they anticipated that a range of services will be proposed by audio content providers as part of the Expression of Interest phase including those of a niche or cultural relevance that may also be located within the FáilteDAB Mux 2 area.
In conclusion, Stephen Foley, thanked all the existing and future participants and listeners. He hopes that the learnings and contributions from the audio content providers, listeners, and the technical trial would lead to further studies or future licensing of a permanent DAB+ network.