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ARD Brings Mediathek to Zattoo via Direct Linking in Germany

The app-to-app model preserves ARD control, contrasting with Joyn's earlier embedding dispute.

Overview

  • Zattoo users can open ARD Mediathek titles through direct links and then return to the Zattoo interface with a few clicks.
  • Editorial highlights from ARD appear on Zattoo’s start page, and the full Mediathek catalog is searchable within the app.
  • The integration is already live on the web, Apple devices, and Android devices, with Smart TV support rolling out next.
  • The cooperation applies to the German market and expands a partnership that has included ARD’s linear channels on Zattoo since 2008.
  • The approach differs from Joyn’s earlier embedding of ARD/ZDF libraries that led to legal action, while ProSiebenSat.1 argues embedding is lawful under EU rules.