Bavaria’s local TV channels are leading the way in switching off SD distribution on Astra (19.2° East) in Germany.
From April 1, 2018, the 16 local stations can only be received in HD quality via satellite, Bavaria’s media authority BLM announced in Munich. Viewers are recommended to conduct a channel scan to switch their receivers to the HD signals.
The HD transition will be accompanied by an information campaign with text captions on the SD feeds as well as trailers, radio spots and billboard advertising.
BLM supports the move with information events for retailers and installers. Under the title What will change in TV and radio reception in 2018?, information will be provided in seven Bavarian cities about SD switch-off on Astra, the HD distribution of the Bavarian local TV channels, the end of analogue TV and radio carriage on cable and the further rollout of DVB-T2, DAB+ and Ultra HD.
