DW-TV's program can now be received in the 16:9 widescreen TV format.

The Journal and all magazine programs on DW-TV have now changed to the 16:9 format. DW-TV's features and documentaries ("In Focus") are still available in both formats, the conventional 4:3 and the 16:9 widescreen TV format.

What it does it mean for DW-TV viewers?

Until the end of the transition period DW-TV will be broadcasting in alternating formats, the 4:3 and the 16:9 widescreen format. Usually, a TV satellite receiver can automatically discern which format is being used and react accordingly. If this is not the case, the result can be scrambled images such as distorted heads: this can be resolved by manually adjusting the receiver settings listed in the menu.

Why is the change happening?

A lot has happened over the past few years when it comes to TV formats. The format we are used to has a so-called aspect ratio of 4:3: that means the picture is 4 units wide for every 3 units of height. But scientific studies suggest that the human eye is more adapted to a 16:9 range of vision, which is less tiring as there is no "wandering " effect, and allows the eye to take in peripheral objects outside the main focus of view. That's why an increasing number of TV networks have decided to switch to widescreen viewing: a step that has already been taken by all of Germany's public broadcasters.