RadioDNS
RadioDNS is a UK-registered not-for-profit that develops and maintains open, royalty-free technical standards linking broadcast radio with internet services via DNS lookup, enabling hybrid radio in connected vehicles for broadcasters, automotive OEMs, and device manufacturers worldwide.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2008
- HeadquartersZoetermeer, Netherlands
- Headcount1–10
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingSoftware
What RadioDNS does
RadioDNS is a UK-registered not-for-profit standards organization founded in 2008 and incorporated as RadioDNS Limited in December 2013. The company develops and maintains open, royalty-free technical standards for Hybrid Radio, which link broadcast radio signals (FM, DAB, DAB+, HD Radio) with internet services via DNS lookup. Its core technology stack is built around ETSI-published specifications (TS 103 270 for Hybrid Lookup, TS 102 818 for Service and Programme Information, TS 101 499 for Visual Slideshow) plus extended features for Service Following, Targeted Content, Analytics, and Interaction (Tagging). RadioDNS operates the DNS root servers for the radiodns.org domain and has maintained zero end-user affecting DNS downtime since 2014.
The organization's customer base comprises broadcasters (BBC, NPR, EBU and commercial radio groups), automotive manufacturers (Audi, VW, Porsche, BMW, CARIAD), consumer electronics makers (Samsung, Revo, Philips, PURE), and a network of implementation service providers (Pluxbox, Radioplayer, Aiir, All In Media, Folder Media, togglebit, Omny Studio, Vizion'R). All technical standards and DNS lookup services are free to use with no patent or license fees. The company operates as a member-driven organization funded entirely through annual membership fees (GBP 4,500 per year in 2024), which provide voting rights, technical support, advanced testing tools, and certification. A small supplementary revenue stream from running DNS services for digital TV represents less than 5% of annual expenditure.
RadioDNS is governed by a Steering Board elected every two years from its membership, with day-to-day operations run by a two-person Project Office (Project Director Nick Piggott and Project Coordinator Rosie Kendrick). The organization operates as a virtual entity with staff located across different cities and countries, conducting business primarily through email, calls, and video conferencing. Its registered office is in Bristol, United Kingdom. The organization reaches its audience through industry events (NAB Show, Radiodays Europe, BroadcastAsia, CES), joint Automotive Workshops with WorldDAB, comprehensive technical documentation, and open-source code repositories on GitHub.
RadioDNS firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- RadioDNS
- Legal name
- RadioDNS Limited
- Website
- https://radiodns.org
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2008
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 1–10 employees
- Short description
- RadioDNS is a UK-registered not-for-profit that develops and maintains open, royalty-free technical standards linking broadcast radio with internet services via DNS lookup, enabling hybrid radio in connected vehicles for broadcasters, automotive OEMs, and device manufacturers worldwide.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
RadioDNS industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Broadcast Technology Standards
- NAICS
- Radio Broadcasting Stations (516110), Radio Broadcasting Stations (51611)
- SIC
- Radio Broadcasting Stations (4832)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Radio Network Distribution & Affiliate Services (Terrestrial/Satellite/IP) (MPABABAL)
- akta.pro secondary industry
- Digital Radio Broadcasting (DAB/DAB+, HD Radio) (MPAIAEAD)
Keywords
Where RadioDNS is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Zoetermeer
- HQ country
- Netherlands
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices1 record
Markets served
RadioDNS business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Software
- Cost components
- Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Membership Fees: RadioDNS is funded entirely by annual membership fees from its members. Members include broadcasters, manufacturers, service providers, and associations. Membership provides voting rights, technical support, access to testing tools, and influence over strategic direction.
- DNS Services (Minimal): A very small amount of income is generated from running DNS services for digital TV, though this represents less than 5% of annual expenditure.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Freemium | Pay-as-you-go | Free Standards Access |
| Subscription | Annual | Full Membership |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels4 records
Marketing channels6 records
RadioDNS product offering
Product offeringCore offering
RadioDNS develops and maintains open, royalty-free technical standards (RadioDNS Hybrid Radio) that link broadcast radio signals (FM, DAB, DAB+, HD Radio) with internet services via DNS lookup to deliver enhanced hybrid radio experiences in connected vehicles and devices. Its standards include Service and Programme Information, Visual Slideshow, Service Following, Targeted Content, Analytics, and Interaction features, supplemented by open-source developer libraries, testing tools, and authoritative DNS services for the radiodns.org domain.
Product overview
RadioDNS offers a suite of open, royalty-free technology standards for Hybrid Radio that seamlessly combine broadcast radio (FM, DAB, DAB+, HD Radio) with internet connectivity. The core RadioDNS Hybrid Radio Standards encompass Lookup (DNS-based discovery), Service and Programme Information (SPI), Visual Slideshow, Service Following, Targeted Content, Analytics, and Interaction features. Supporting infrastructure includes developer tools (Simple Testing Tool, SI Builder, Testing Platform, Software Libraries), and initiatives like Project Logo for baseline metadata. All standards and basic services are free to use; membership provides priority technical support, access to advanced testing tools, and influence over strategic direction. The organization is funded entirely through membership fees and operates DNS root servers for the radiodns.org domain.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Products and services
- RadioDNS Hybrid Radio Standards Open, royalty-free technology standards that combine broadcast radio (FM, DAB, DAB+, HD Radio) with internet connectivity to deliver enhanced hybrid radio experiences in connected vehicles and devices, comprising Lookup (TS 103 270), Service and Programme Information (TS 102 818), and Visual Slideshow (TS 101 499) along with optional features such as Service Following, Targeted Content, Analytics, and Interaction.
- RadioDNS Lookup Authoritative DNS-based lookup service (ETSI TS 103 270) that creates a link between broadcast radio signals and internet domains, enabling radio receivers and connected vehicles to discover additional services and content associated with a radio station.
- Service and Programme Information (SPI) ETSI TS 102 818 XML standard for describing metadata about radio stations, including station logos, names, descriptions, programme schedules, and on-demand/podcast content, enabling accurate station information to be presented on radios and in connected vehicles.
- Visual Slideshow / Visuals and Dynamic Metadata ETSI TS 101 499 standard for delivering dynamic visual content (artist images, news, weather, traffic cams, advertising) over IP alongside broadcast radio, synchronized with the audio stream, rendered on listeners' screens.
- Service Following Capability that automatically switches between broadcast radio and IP streaming when broadcast signal quality degrades, keeping listeners connected to their preferred station regardless of physical location or coverage.
- Station Registration (DNS Registration Service) Managed DNS registration service that creates the link between broadcast signals and internet presence for individual radio stations, enabling all RadioDNS Hybrid Radio activities (lookup, visuals, service following, analytics) for registered stations.
- Software Libraries Open-source libraries and reference code samples available on GitHub in multiple programming languages (Node.js, Perl, PHP, Python, C, Ruby, Java) that implement RadioDNS Lookup and related standards for developers building hybrid radio applications.
- Interaction (Tag) Feature enabling listeners to bookmark/tag moments of interest from broadcast radio with a button press, then revisit that content later on phone, tablet, or desktop devices linked to the same station and account.
- Analytics Standard Standard allowing radio receivers to report broadcast radio listening activity to stations, providing insight comparable to streaming logs so broadcasters can analyse usage of their broadcast services in connected vehicles and devices.
- Targeted Content Capability to deliver targeted content to individual listeners based on location, preferences, or other factors, merging live broadcast audio with IP-delivered targeted content such as local traffic reports, weather maps, and targeted advertising.
- Simple Testing Tool Browser-based tool available for anyone (including non-members) to carry out basic checks on RadioDNS configuration, including validation of FM and DAB broadcast station setups.
- SI Builder Browser-based tool for constructing Service Information (SI) XML files, the foundational building block of RadioDNS hybrid radio services, used by broadcasters and integrators to generate standards-compliant station metadata.
- Testing Platform More extensive suite of testing tools available exclusively to RadioDNS members, providing advanced testing and debugging of hybrid radio implementations beyond the public Simple Testing Tool.
- Project Logo Baseline minimum implementation of RadioDNS Hybrid Radio, defining basic station metadata (station logos, names, descriptions, streaming URLs) that any radio station can implement to enhance how their station is displayed to listeners.
Quantifiable outcome
- RadioDNS Hybrid Radio covers 26 countries including Europe, North America, Russia and Australia
- +3 more outcomes
Companies that use RadioDNS
Customer profileNamed customers9 records
Segments4 records
Ideal customer profiles4 records
RadioDNS technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature6 records
RadioDNS partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Nine partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- WorldDABcoreWorldDAB and RadioDNS jointly host Automotive Workshops four times yearly, bringing together broadcasters, vehicle manufacturers, Tier 1 suppliers, and technology providers to address issues affecting radio in vehicles. This partnership represents the primary forum for industry collaboration on hybrid radio implementation.
- PluxboxcorePluxbox is a RadioDNS member offering turnkey hybrid radio solutions. They provide station visualization, SI file management, and RadioVIS services for broadcasters globally.
- RadioplayercoreRadioplayer is a non-profit partnership backed by radio broadcasters operating in 21 countries. They have hybrid radio partnerships with CARIAD (VW Group), BMW Group, and Renault, with their metadata powering over 2.5 million cars. They are a RadioDNS Board member.
- AiirminorInternational technology service provider for radio stations offering RadioDNS-compatible platform for managing station information, logos, schedules, websites, players, mobile apps, and Alexa skills.
- All In MediaminorTechnology company with offices in UK and Australia providing RadioVIS and hybrid radio solutions through a fully-managed hosted service for radio stations globally.
- Folder MediaminorUK-based radio and digital development business providing consultancy and systems including RadioVIS implementation, websites, and back-office applications for radio and media companies.
- togglebitminorDigital solutions studio based in Bristol, UK specializing in technical solutions for broadcast radio operators and manufacturers, offering everything from turnkey options for small broadcasters to bespoke solutions for large operators.
- Omny StudiominorAudio-on-demand management platform built specifically for radio, offering capture, editing, and publishing to all popular platforms with world-class analytics and ad-platform integrations.
- Vizion'RminorFrench company helping radio and television customers with production and publishing of rich visual content in the digital sector, including aspects related to hybrid radio.
Scale indicators5 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights5 records
RadioDNS competitors and assessment
Company assessmentEmerging players
- DTS AutoStage: Connected-car hybrid radio platform from Xperi/DTS that combines broadcast radio with IP streaming and metadata in vehicles. Directly competes with RadioDNS Hybrid Radio for OEM infotainment integrations.
- Pluxbox: RadioDNS implementation partner offering station visualization, SI file management, and RadioVIS services to broadcasters globally. Comparable as a hybrid-radio tooling and services provider within the RadioDNS ecosystem.
Direct peers
- Radioplayer: Non-profit broadcaster partnership (active in 21 countries) that delivers hybrid radio metadata to connected vehicles via CARIAD, BMW and Renault. Directly comparable as a non-profit hybrid-radio enablement layer with automotive OEM relationships.
- WorldDAB: Industry forum for DAB digital radio, jointly hosts Automotive Workshops with RadioDNS and shares the same mission of advancing hybrid radio in vehicles. Highly comparable in mission, membership-driven non-profit structure, and focus on broadcast + IP integration.
- RDS Forum: Industry body governing the RDS FM metadata standard, a foundational broadcast-radio data technology. Comparable as a standards-setting organization focused on enriching FM broadcast signals with metadata.
Broad incumbents
- iHeartMedia: Largest US radio broadcaster and a RadioDNS-supporting member. Comparable as a tier-1 commercial broadcaster deploying hybrid radio and a potential adopter/promoter of competing platforms.
- Xperi (HD Radio): Owner of HD Radio broadcast technology, which is one of the broadcast formats RadioDNS integrates. Comparable as a broadcast-radio technology incumbent that competes for OEM mindshare, though proprietary rather than open-standards based.
- TuneIn: Major internet radio streaming aggregator with deep automotive integration. Comparable as an alternative path to in-vehicle radio listening, though streaming-only rather than hybrid broadcast+IP.
Others
- Gracenote (Nielsen): Provider of music and radio metadata to automotive and broadcast clients. Comparable as a metadata infrastructure vendor serving the same broadcaster and OEM customers RadioDNS targets.
- European Broadcasting Union (EBU): Alliance of public service broadcasters that is itself a RadioDNS member and active in hybrid-radio standards work. Comparable as an ecosystem stakeholder driving cross-border hybrid radio adoption.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
RadioDNS social profiles
Digital presenceRadioDNS financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
RadioDNS leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles2 records
RadioDNS funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
RadioDNS M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about RadioDNS
What does RadioDNS do?
RadioDNS develops and maintains open, royalty-free technical standards (RadioDNS Hybrid Radio) that link broadcast radio signals (FM, DAB, DAB+, HD Radio) with internet services via DNS lookup to deliver enhanced hybrid radio experiences in connected vehicles and devices. Its standards include Service and Programme Information, Visual Slideshow, Service Following, Targeted Content, Analytics, and Interaction features, supplemented by open-source developer libraries, testing tools, and authoritative DNS services for the radiodns.org domain.
Is RadioDNS a public or private company?
RadioDNS is a private company. It is classified as nonprofit foundation owned and is currently operating.
When was RadioDNS founded?
RadioDNS was founded in 2008. It employs 1 to 10 people.
Where is RadioDNS based?
RadioDNS is headquartered in Zoetermeer, Netherlands, in the Europe region.
How does RadioDNS make money?
Two revenue lines are on record. Membership Fees are the primary driver. The others are DNS Services (Minimal).
Who are RadioDNS's main competitors?
Emerging players on record are DTS AutoStage and Pluxbox. Direct peers are Radioplayer, WorldDAB and RDS Forum. Broad incumbents are iHeartMedia, Xperi (HD Radio) and TuneIn. Others are Gracenote (Nielsen) and European Broadcasting Union (EBU).
Does RadioDNS have an API?
No public API is recorded for RadioDNS.
What industry is RadioDNS in?
RadioDNS's product category is Broadcast Technology Standards. Its primary akta.pro industry code is MPABABAL, Radio Network Distribution & Affiliate Services (Terrestrial/Satellite/IP), with a secondary code of MPAIAEAD, Digital Radio Broadcasting (DAB/DAB+, HD Radio). Its NAICS code is 516110 and its SIC code is 4832.