HD has a specific meaning in this service’s help
The publisher’s resolution article states a maximum of 720p for its VOD service. It describes the streaming player selecting among 240p, 360p, 480p and 720p according to the detected connection. A higher-resolution television does not change the source resolution named in that guidance. Distinguish the display’s panel specification from the stream currently supplied by the service.
A download fixes the selected quality for playback
ARTE’s January 2026 viewing guidance describes an offline choice between 480p SD and 720p HD. It contrasts that selected download quality with streaming quality that adapts during playback. If a film’s image keeps changing with the connection, an eligible download can provide a more consistent selected version; it is not described as unlocking a higher-resolution edition than the service offers.
Check download eligibility before using that comparison
The same viewing guidance qualifies desktop downloads: some films are available only for desktop streaming because of rights restrictions, while their mobile download route can remain available. An absent desktop download control therefore need not be a bandwidth problem. Identify whether the symptom is low streaming quality, a changing stream, or no eligible download option. ARTE recommends checking an up-to-date browser and comparing another browser for persistent online problems. Keep the film and player type in the report. These are the publisher’s documented resolutions and routes, not measurements from a purchased film or a guarantee that every title reaches 720p on every connection.