A groundbreaking study by the German digital industry association Bitkom has unveiled a significant shift in German media consumption. For the first time, video streaming has overtaken traditional television, marking a pivotal moment in the country's media landscape. The survey, presented at the IFA consumer electronics trade fair, indicates that 87% of Germans aged 16 and above now stream films, series, or TV shows online, slightly exceeding the 86% who still watch broadcast television.
This represents a dramatic change from a year ago when 92% of the population watched traditional TV compared to 86% who streamed. This data symbolizes a clear trend towards streaming as the primary method of video consumption in Germany, underscoring the ongoing decline of classic television. “Despite its high reach, the audience for traditional TV is slowly, but steadily declining,” noted Bitkom board member Olaf May. “Last year’s end of mandatory cable TV fees in rental contracts accelerated the trend, with many households switching to alternative reception methods.”
The study also highlights notable differences across age groups. Among 16- to 29-year-olds, half of all streaming users favor on-demand viewing, enjoying shows and films at their convenience. In contrast, 48% of streaming users aged 65 and above still prefer scheduled programming, maintaining traditional viewing habits even on streaming platforms. Overall, 40% of streaming viewers prioritize on-demand content, 30% mainly watch live or scheduled programming, and 28% equally utilize both approaches.
May emphasized that linear TV remains relevant: “On-demand has enormous popularity, but linear television is not a dying model. Both forms are merging. Broadcasters now offer catch-up services and on-demand libraries, while streaming providers are introducing live channels. Free ad-supported streaming TV channels (FAST) with fixed schedules are also gaining traction.”
This data is part of Bitkom’s annual Future of Consumer Technology study, surveying over 1,100 individuals in Germany. While the report covers broader digital lifestyle changes, the key takeaway is the end of TV’s long-held dominance in the German market. The complete study, Zukunft der Consumer Technology 2025, is available at www.bitkom.org/zukunft-consumer-technology.