CML Micro To Showcase Bluetooth-Enabled DRM1000 At IBC 2026

Bluetooth-enabled DRM receiver platform opens new opportunities for smart device connectivity, multimedia services and distance learning

CML Micro, a leading developer of mixed-signal, RF and microwave semiconductors for global communications markets, will showcase new Bluetooth connectivity capabilities for its DRM1000 Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) broadcast receiver platform at IBC 2026, taking place at the RAI Amsterdam from 11–14 September.

Demonstrating how this added connectivity can enable a new generation of DRM applications and services, the DRM1000 will be on display on the Fraunhofer IIS stand (8.B80, Hall 8), where visitors will be able to see the Bluetooth-enabled platform in action.

Bluetooth bridges a usability gap for DRM by enabling broadcast content and services to reach everyday mobile devices without requiring built-in DRM reception hardware. Incorporating Bluetooth functionality directly into the DRM1000 based platform, creates a link between DRM receivers and the devices people widely use, opening opportunities for an array of applications, from enhanced multimedia and information services through to distance learning and emergency alerts. Moreover, content and services can be delivered over DRM broadcast infrastructure rather than relying on an internet connection, providing significant potential in markets and locations where mobile data coverage may be limited, costly or simply unavailable.

As well as extending DRM services to connected devices, Bluetooth expands the existing multimedia capabilities of the DRM1000, a complete antenna-to-speaker platform providing continuous frequency coverage from 150kHz to 108MHz and supporting AM, FM and DRM reception. The platform integrates all DRM modes and codecs, key audio and data decoding capabilities, as well as an embedded licence for DRM’s Journaline advanced text application, developed in cooperation with Fraunhofer IIS. With a compact 42mm x 25mm x 5mm form factor and power consumption of less than 350mW, the DRM1000 provides consumer digital radio manufacturers with a true turnkey, production-ready solution.

Matthew Phillips, Product Line Director for Broadcast and Maritime, at CML Micro and Vice-Chair of the DRM Consortium, said: “Bluetooth connectivity represents an important extension to what manufacturers and broadcasters can achieve with the DRM1000. By connecting DRM receivers with the smart devices people use every day, it facilitates the development of feature-rich DRM services, from news, sports and weather information to educational content and other multimedia applications. It also gives users a familiar and flexible way to access and interact with these services, reducing the need for a portable radio to have a power consuming display and complex user interface.”

The Bluetooth-enabled DRM1000 demonstration at IBC 2026 represents the latest evolution of a platform that is already in production and integrated into commercial receiver designs. The module is already being used in the N88 Portable DRM Radio by Solar Grove Solutions, demonstrating its suitability for production-ready consumer products.

The IBC demonstration also reflects CML Micro’s continued work with Fraunhofer IIS to cooperate and to bring additional multimedia capabilities to the DRM1000 platform. The companies are aiming to make further exciting announcements in early 2027. The aim is to simplify the development of Bluetooth-enabled DRM solutions and give manufacturers access to a broader range of connected applications and services. Ahead of IBC 2026, Phillips will also participate in the DRM Consortium’s virtual pre-IBC event on 8 September at 12:00 CEST, providing an update on the latest developments, deployments and innovations around the DRM standard.