Funkausstellung

Funkausstellung, literally “radio exhibition” in German, refers to the Berlin trade fair historically dedicated to radio technology and later to consumer electronics. The event is internationally known as IFA, the Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin, a leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances. It is held annually in Berlin, Germany, typically in late August and early September, at Messe Berlin. The show is organized by gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH in cooperation with Messe Berlin and industry associations.

History: The first Funkausstellung took place in Berlin in the early 20th century as a public fair showcasing radio technology; it grew into one of the world’s largest electronics fairs. After World War II, the fair resumed in West Berlin and expanded to cover a broad range of consumer electronics, including audio, video, imaging, computing, mobile devices, and smart home products. The name IFA has since become the brand used for the event, although the term Funkausstellung remains in common use.

Format and impact: IFA serves as both a trade show for retailers and distributors and a public event attracting thousands of visitors and global media. Exhibitors launch new products, announce technologies, and demonstrate consumer goods across categories such as audiovisual equipment, home appliances, and connected devices. The fair is regarded as one of the oldest and most influential platforms for the consumer electronics industry in Europe.

See also: IFA (Berlin).