Freeview Channel Switch Off Is Coming

In June, we report the news that over 12 Freeview channels will be moving or completely closing down. This is because of the fact that an entire Freeview multiplex is closing to allow for 5G mobile services. We have discussed the implications and 5G in this article – so take a look if you are interested in finding out more. This announcement marks the end of the 5G project that will, unfortunately, see this reduction in the number of frequencies that are made available to terrestrial TV services. This is to make the switch to 5G.

This article takes a look at the implications of the switch off, why it’s happening in more detail and what to expect in the future. We will also discuss the channels that will be affected and moved or removed.

At The Aerial Man, we are one of the leading providers or TV aerial installations across the South West. Also specialising in Freeview boxes with our partners including Humax – we are more than happy to discuss how you can enjoy Freeview in your home. To arrange for a TV Aerial installation in Swindon or across the South West – get in touch with our team today.

So Why is 5G Taking Over Freeview Frequency Space?

There was an auction to acquire the rights to the multiplex in which EE won to acquire the rights. The Ofcom license expires on the 30th of June 2022 so this has given them time to set up the 5G networks and to install the frameworks across the country. Now that this has taken place – the switch will occur next month – so which channels are affected?

Source: Express:

“FreeSports • Quest Red + • Now 70s • More4 +1 • PBS America +1 • That’s TV • Forces TV • BBC Four HD • BBC News HD • QVC HD • QVC Beauty HD • Quest HD • CBeebies HD (daytime)”

What is the Future of the Channels Affected?

It has been left to the channel providers to arrange for solutions in which to move their channels across to ensure that they are re-broadcast. This would mean that they would need to arrange for another multiplex that will allow them to transmit to your TV. This decision does not involve Freeview or Ofcom and therefore – it’s up to the broadcaster to provide them.

Will Online Options Become More Popular?

It’s highly likely that BBC will be pushing iPlayer more and more. With the cost of living crisis as well as other rising costs – homeowners are going to be looking to cut back on subscription-based television so the producers are likely to be pursuing riding off of the back of this change. 

Do I Need to Make Any Changes When 5G Goes Live?

If you’ve found that you’ve had issues with 4G interference in the past – we recommend that you consider also looking at solutions for 5G disturbances. If you think that this may be an issue – get in touch with our team today and we are more than glad to offer you help and assistance.

If you have any questions on the changes or want advice relating to Freeview or TV aerial installation then look no further and get in touch with our team today.

At The Aerial Man, we are one of the leading providers or TV aerial installations across the South West. Also specialising in Freeview boxes with our partners including Humax – we are more than happy to discuss how you can enjoy Freeview in your home. To arrange for a TV Aerial installation in Swindon or across the South West – get in touch with our team today.