From TV to Mini Loans - What's Changing in November - Germany's Media & Travel Changes: HD TV Upgrade Deadline, Ryanair's Digital Boarding Passes & Ski Helmet Mandate
Germany is seeing several changes in media, travel, and safety regulations. Major cable providers like Vodafone and Pyur are phasing out SD public channels, while TV viewers must upgrade to HD sets by November 18 to receive ARD and ZDF channels. Meanwhile, Ryanair passengers will need smartphones for boarding passes, and skiers in Italy must wear helmets. The EU is also implementing changes to consumer credit information and 'buy now, pay later' services.
Starting November 18, 2025, German public broadcasters ARD and ZDF will stop SD broadcasts, moving exclusively to HD. This follows major cable providers like Vodafone and Pyur phasing out SD public channels by the end of the year. Viewers with outdated TV sets will need to upgrade to HD-capable devices to continue watching ARD and ZDF channels.
In travel news, Ryanair is phasing out paper boarding passes, requiring passengers to use smartphones from November 12. Nearly 80% of Ryanair's passengers already use digital boarding passes, making the transition smoother for most. Additionally, starting November 1, all skiers, snowboarders, and sledders in Italian resorts must wear helmets for safety. Violators face fines of €100–150 and risk losing their ski pass.
The EU is implementing changes to consumer credit. Borrowers will receive clearer information about loan costs due to updates in the EU Consumer Credit Directive. Starting November 20, 'buy now, pay later' offers and microloans up to €200 will require a creditworthiness check. The €200 Culture Pass for 18-year-olds expires on November 30, with remaining funds usable until then.
These changes aim to improve viewing quality, safety, and consumer protection. Viewers must upgrade their TVs, travelers must adapt to digital boarding passes, and borrowers will benefit from clearer loan information. The Culture Pass for 18-year-olds also comes to an end, encouraging young adults to make the most of their remaining funds.
