ARD overhauls its broadcasting and digital strategy under new media treaty

Fewer articles, more video: ARD’s bold shift could redefine public broadcasting in Germany. Will audiences embrace the new digital-first approach?

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2025 November 29 . 5:13 AM

1 min read

In this image there is a conference in which there are people sitting in chair and listening to the... — In this image there is a conference in which there are people sitting in chair and listening to the people who are on the stage. It seems like an event in which there is a conversation between the media people and the owners. At the background there is a big hoarding and the wall beside it.

First Reform Steps at ARD: Fewer Radio Stations and Online Texts of the 'Tagesschau' - ARD overhauls its broadcasting and digital strategy under new media treaty

ARD is set to introduce major changes to its broadcasting and digital services next year. The updates follow an amended interstate treaty governing public-service media. Nearly 40 adjustments will affect radio, TV, and online platforms across Germany.

The revised treaty will push ARD to focus more on audio and video content in its Tagesschau app and website. Stricter rules on text-based reporting mean fewer written articles will appear online. These restrictions may slow down news delivery and reduce the visibility of ARD’s content in search engines.

The reforms will reshape how ARD delivers news and entertainment to its audience. Listeners and viewers can expect fewer radio frequencies, more shared content, and a stronger focus on audio-visual formats. The success of these changes will rely on how well broadcasters adapt to the new legal framework.