ARD and ZDF to reduce linear channels by 2027

German public broadcasters ARD and ZDF are restructuring their digital and linear offerings to comply with state treaty mandates requiring a reduction in the number of channels. As part of this reform, the channels ARD One, Tagesschau24, and ARD-Alpha will be discontinued by January 1, 2027.

To maintain news capabilities, ARD-aktuell in Hamburg is reorganizing its structures. While Tagesschau24 will cease operations, the news service Phoenix will continue as a joint information offering between ARD and ZDF. Other adjustments include a stronger focus on ZDFneo for younger adults and the consolidation of documentary content on ZDFinfo.

The restructuring also extends to radio, with the number of DAB+ programs expected to decrease from approximately 70 to a maximum of 53 by early next year. Long-term plans indicate that by 2029, ZDFneo will transition to a non-linear format, with Kika, funk, ZDFinfo, and Phoenix potentially moving away from linear broadcasting by 2033. Decisions regarding Arte and 3sat remain pending due to the involvement of other European partner states.