Overview

• Vodafone will end SD distribution of ZDF on its cable network on 18 November 2025, matching the broadcaster’s satellite HD-only switch.
• The change covers ZDF, ZDFinfo, ZDFneo, 3sat and KiKA.
• On-screen banners on the SD feeds will run from 7 October to warn affected viewers.
• Vodafone says roughly 2% of cable households used SD-only receivers at the start of 2025, with many remaining users likely on decade-old Kabel Deutschland or Unitymedia boxes.
• The operator says freed capacity will support future network design and higher broadband speeds, while private channels continue SD carriage and often charge for HD access.