ARD Ends SD Broadcasts, Leaving Older TVs Unable to Access Key Channels

Hundreds of thousands of households in Germany may need new TVs as the ARD transitions to HD-only satellite broadcasting.

Overview

As of January 7, 2025, ARD will cease broadcasting its channels in SD quality via satellite, switching exclusively to HD transmission.
The change affects households with older TVs that cannot support HD, potentially requiring new equipment for continued access.
Approximately 2.7 million households in Germany still relied on SD-only devices as of 2023, according to industry data.
Major cable operators are expected to follow ARD's lead, discontinuing SD broadcasts of ARD channels on the same date.
Private broadcasters, including ProSiebenSat.1 and RTL, have confirmed they will continue offering SD broadcasts for the foreseeable future.