German broadcaster RTL Deutschland and DTT network operator Media Broadcast have agreed an early extension of their long-term partnership, securing the distribution of RTL’s channels on DVB-T2 platform Freenet TV until 31 December 2030.
Under the renewed agreement, eight channels from RTL Deutschland will continue to be available via DTT in high definition. The line-up comprises RTL HD, VOX HD, Super RTL HD, RTLzwei HD, n-tv HD, Nitro HD, VOXup HD and RTLup HD, all of which remain accessible nationwide through a Freenet TV subscription.
The renewal comes as recent research by Kantar indicates growing usage of DTT in Germany, suggesting renewed relevance for terrestrial broadcasting alongside cable, satellite and streaming. The continued distribution agreement with RTL is seen as strengthening Freenet TV’s position as a distribution platform for commercial TV channels.
“The early contract extension with RTL Deutschland is a clear commitment to DVB-T2 HD and to our Freenet TV platform. Together, we are ensuring that viewers will continue to have access to an attractive and high-performance programme offering via antenna in the years to come,” said Francie Petrick, Managing Director of Media Broadcast.
Andre Prahl, Chief Distribution Officer at RTL Deutschland, added: “Our goal is to make our free-to-air channels available in HD quality across all distribution infrastructures. We are very pleased that our popular channel portfolio will now also be available long-term via DVB-T2 HD on Freenet TV for all interested customers.”
