A strong signal ahead of the 2027 World Radio Conference! In Amsterdam, APWPT (Association of Professional Wireless Production Technologies e. V.) and NABA (North American Broadcasters Association) sealed their strategic partnership. The goal is to preserve the TV UHF frequency band for culture and media. Both sectors are working hand in hand on an international level to safeguard free media and independent culture, as well as the events industry, film, and the conference sector.
During the IBC trade show in Amsterdam in September 2026, representatives from both organizations spoke at a specially convened conference. Speaking on behalf of APWPT, Chairman Jochen Zenthöfer addressed the growing demand for radio frequencies for PMSE (Program Making and Special Events) applications. This growing demand is driven by ever-larger and more sophisticated shows and festivals, as well as new technical possibilities such as broadband systems (WMAS). Culture and media must be protected at the World Radiocommunication Conferences in 2027 and 2031. The TV UHF band, the so called sub-700 MHz band, should therefore be removed from the agenda for 2031. “The compromise painstakingly reached in 2023 is fine as it is”, said Zenthöfer: “It shouldn’t be reopened, but should suffice for 20 years.”
150 people attended the conference in Amsterdam.* That evening, the partnership was celebrated at a rented restaurant in Amsterdam, with guests from all over the world and from four continents. APWPT has additional international partnerships with Spectrum Insights Africa, the Entertainment Technology Industry Alliance (ETIA), and the “Wider Spectrum Group”. APWPT members come from over 30 countries and include organizations and individuals such as RF managers.
* Of these, about 100 participated online.
See: https://www.ibc.org/production/news/naba-and-apwpt-partner-on-wireless-microphones/22794
Photo: Silke Lalvani (APWPT) and Rayne Morgan (NABA) celebrate the partnership at IBC 2026 in Amsterdam
