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Freeview (UK)
Freeview (UK)
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Freeview is the United Kingdom's sole digital terrestrial television platform. It is operated by Everyone TV and DTV Services Ltd, a joint venture between the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, 5 and Sky. It was launched on 30 October 2002,[1] taking over the licence from ITV Digital which collapsed that year. The service provides consumer access via an aerial to the seven DTT multiplexes covering the United Kingdom. As of July 2020, it has 85 TV channels, 26 digital radio channels, 10 HD channels, six text services, 11 streamed channels, and one interactive channel.[2][3][4]

Key Information

Delivery of standard-definition television and radio is labelled Freeview, while delivery of HDTV is called Freeview HD. Reception of Freeview requires a DVB-T/DVB-T2 tuner, either in a separate set-top box or built into the TV set. Since 2008, all new TV sets sold in the United Kingdom have a built-in Freeview tuner.[5] Freeview HD requires an HDTV-capable tuner. Digital video recorders (DVRs) with a built-in Freeview tuner are labelled Freeview+. Depending on model, DVRs and HDTV sets with a Freeview tuner may offer standard Freeview or Freeview HD. Freeview Play is a more recent addition which adds direct access to catch-up services via the Internet.

The technical specification for Freeview is published and maintained by the Digital TV Group, the industry association for digital TV in the UK which also provide the test and conformance regime for Freeview, Freeview + and Freeview HD products. DMOL (DTT Multiplex Operators Ltd.), a company owned by the operators of the six DTT multiplexes (BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Arqiva) is responsible for technical platform management and policy, including the electronic programme guide and channel numbering.[6]

History

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Main article: History of Freeview UK
Logo used from 2006 to 2015

Freeview officially launched on 30 October 2002 at 5 am, when the BBC and Crown Castle (now Arqiva) officially took over the digital terrestrial television (DTT) licences to broadcast on the three multiplexes from the defunct ITV Digital. The founding members of DTV Services, who trade as Freeview, were the BBC, Crown Castle UK and British Sky Broadcasting. On 11 October 2006, ITV plc and Channel 4 became equal shareholders. Since then, the Freeview model has been copied in Australia and New Zealand.

Although all pay channels had been closed down on ITV Digital, many free-to-air channels continued broadcasting, including the five analogue channels and digital channels such as ITV2, ITN News Channel, S4C2, TV Travel Shop and QVC.[7] With the launch of Freeview other channels were broadcast free-to-air, such as: Sky Travel, UK History, Sky News, Sky Sports News, The Hits (later renamed 4Music in 2008, now defunct) and TMF (later renamed to Viva in 2009, now defunct) were available from the start. BBC Four and the interactive BBC streams were moved to multiplex B.[8] Under the initial plans, the two multiplexes operated by Crown Castle would carry eight channels altogether. The seventh stream became shared by UK Bright Ideas and Ftn which launched in February 2003. The eighth stream was left unused until April 2004 when the shopping channel Ideal World launched on Freeview. There are now 14 streams carried by two multiplexes, with Multiplex C carrying 6 streams, and Multiplex D carrying 8. It has recently[when?] been announced that more streams are now available on the multiplexes, and that bidding is under way.[citation needed]

2009 retune

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The Freeview service underwent a major upgrade on 30 September 2009, which required 18 million households to retune their Freeview receiving equipment.[9] The changes, meant to ensure proper reception of Channel 5, led to several thousand complaints from people who lost channels (notably ITV3 and ITV4) as a result of retuning their equipment. The Freeview website crashed and the call centre was inundated as a result of the problems. The change involved an update to the NIT (Network Information Table), which some receivers could not accommodate. Many thousands of people could not receive some channels. This included 460,000 fed from relay stations who lost access to ITV3 and ITV4. Updates were broadcast to enable firmware changes, but in some cases the receiver must be left on and receiving broadcasts to accept the updates; not everyone was aware of this.[10][11]

2014 retune

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The Freeview service underwent a major upgrade on 3 September 2014 which required 18 million households to retune their Freeview receiving equipment.[12][13][14][15][16] The changes included a reshuffle of the Children's, News, and Interactive genres.

A number of new HD channels launched in 2014,[17][18] from a new group of multiplexes awarded to Arqiva.[19] The new HD channels were launched in selected areas on 10 December 2013 with a further roll-out during 2014.

Temporary multiplex removal

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The temporary multiplexes are Arqiva-owned multiplexes called COM7 and COM8, DVB-T2 multiplexes for Freeview HD capable devices carrying some channels including HD channels. COM7 is made up of mostly +1s and HDs such as More4+1 and BBC News HD. COM8 consisted of +1s, HDs and other channels such as NOW 80s, PBS America+1 and BBC Four HD. Over the decade these multiplexes are being shut off with COM8 closing on 6 June 2020, with many +1 and HD channels like 5Star+1 and 4seven HD closing and others (like Now 80s) moving to COM7.[citation needed]

Technical problems

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On 10 August 2021, the 315-metre (1,033 ft) Bilsdale transmitter caught fire leaving up to a million homes in the North East of England without a TV or radio signal.[20] Work was ongoing to restore services, but delays to the granting of planning permission for an 80-metre (260 ft) temporary mast sited at Bilsdale, and the lack of safe access to the site, have left up to half a million homes without a service as of 8 September 2021.[21] A temporary mast commenced operations on 13 October 2021,[22] with a permanent replacement, for the television transmissions being enabled on 22 May 2023.[23]

On the evening of 25 September 2021, transmissions of Freeview channels operated by the BBC, Channel 4 and ViacomCBS (Channel 5) were impacted by the activation of a fire suppressant system at the premises of Red Bee Media.[24] While the BBC moved its playout from White City to Salford and Channel 5 went into 'recovery mode' (with viewers seeing an additional black & white symbol at the top of the screen), Channel 4's channels went off air for a number of hours[25] with E4+1 and 4Music still off air on Monday 27 September (though 4Music's channel 30 slot was relaying the output of The Box, with its back-to-back music video format, on that date).

Channels

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Main article: List of DTT channels in the United Kingdom

The Freeview service broadcasts free-to-air television channels, radio stations and interactive services from the existing public service broadcasters. Channels on the service include the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 terrestrial channels, as well as their digital services. In addition, channels from other commercial operators, such as Sky and UKTV, are available, as well as radio services from a number of broadcasters.

The full range of channels broadcast via digital terrestrial television includes some pay television services such as BoxNation and Racing UK. These channels, although available only to subscribers with appropriate equipment, are listed in the on-screen electronic programme guides displayed by many Freeview receivers but cannot be viewed.

The link above gives a full up-to-date list of channels, but, as of January 2020, excluding channels such as S4C or the many Local TV services (1 service included in the count) they total 105 Freeview, 17 Freeview HD and 33 radio.

Reception equipment

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Receivers

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A modern Freeview receiver set-top box (Philips/Pace DTR 220) being used to receive digital television on an older analogue television set (branded Wharfedale)

To receive Freeview, either a television with an integrated digital tuner or an older analogue television with a suitable Freeview-branded set-top box is required.

Aerial

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An outdoor aerial being used for Freeview transmissions

An aerial is required for viewing any broadcast television transmissions. For all transmissions indoor, loft-mounted, and external aerials are available. In regions of strong signal an indoor aerial may be adequate; in marginal areas a high-gain external aerial mounted high above the ground with an electronic amplifier at its top may be needed.

Aerial requirements for analogue (the old standard) and digital reception in the UK are identical; there is no such thing as a special "digital aerial", although installers and suppliers often falsely say one is necessary.[26] As the signal degrades, the analogue picture degrades gradually, but the digital picture holds up well then suddenly becomes unwatchable; an aerial which gave poor analogue viewing may give unwatchable, rather than poor, digital viewing, and need replacing, at a cost of typically £80 to £180, most of which is fitting cost. An aerial intended for external use may be fitted indoors if there is space and the signal is strong enough.[27]

Services

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The Digital TV Group, the industry association for digital television in the UK, is responsible for co-ordination between Freeview and other digital services.[28]

The original Freeview was later expanded with additional facilities (Freeview+), high-definition channels (Freeview HD), and Internet connectivity (Freeview Play). All services remain available; the original Freeview equipment will work (unenhanced) in the same way it always did.

Freeview

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The original Freeview service allowed a large number of digital television channels to be received on a compatible television receiver, set-top box, or personal video recorder. An electronic programme guide was available. Freeview channels are not encrypted and can be received by anyone in the UK. There is no additional charge to receive Freeview but it is a legal obligation to hold a current television licence to watch or record TV as it is being broadcast.[29]

A subscription-based DTT service, Top Up TV, launched in March 2004. The Top Up TV service was not connected with the Freeview service, but ran alongside it on the DTT platform and was included in the Freeview EPG; programmes could be received on some Freeview set-top boxes and televisions equipped with a card slot or CI slot. The service also worked with existing ex-ONdigital / ITV Digital boxes that received the Freeview package; subscribers with those boxes had to insert their TopUp TV card into the slot which was originally used for inserting ONdigital / ITV Digital smartcards. Top Up TV was replaced in 2006, by a service that did not run on Freeview equipment. In October 2013, the TopUp TV service was closed down.

The Freeview logo certification for standard definition (SD) receivers and recorders was withdrawn in January 2017.[30]

Freeview HD

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Freeview HD comprises a number of high-definition versions of existing channels. It requires a different high-definition tuner, and does not supersede or replace standard Freeview.

On 20 August 2020, Freeview announced that it would phase out their Freeview HD brand in 2022.[31]

Channels

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See also: List of HD channels in the United Kingdom

With two channels (BBC HD and ITV HD) Freeview HD completed a "technical launch" on 2 December 2009 from Winter Hill (as a full power service) and Crystal Palace (as a reduced power temporary service). It operates on multiplex BBC B (aka Multiplex B or PSB3). The service was broadcast to all regions by the end of 2012.[32] Channel 4 HD commenced test broadcasts on 25 March 2010 with an animated caption, ahead of its full launch on 30 March 2010, coinciding with the commercial launch of Freeview HD.[33][34] S4C Clirlun launched on 30 April 2010, in Wales, where Channel 4 HD did not broadcast.[35] STV HD launched in Scotland, where ITV HD does not broadcast, on 6 June 2010.[36] S4C Clirlun closed on 1 December 2012, allowing Channel 4 HD to begin broadcasting in Wales.[37]

Five HD was due to launch during 2010 but was unable to reach 'key criteria' to keep its slot.[38][39] Spare allocation on multiplex B was handed over to the BBC, two years from the date when it was anticipated that further capacity on multiplex B would revert to the control of the BBC Trust. On 3 November 2010, BBC One HD launched on Freeview HD.[40] Initially it was available in addition to the existing BBC HD channel, which continued to show the "best of the rest" of the BBC in HD. However, BBC HD was replaced by BBC Two HD on 26 March 2013.[41]

Until 17 October 2011, the commercial public service broadcasters had the opportunity to apply to Ofcom to provide an additional HD service from between 28 November 2011 and 1 April 2012.[42] Channel 5 HD was the sole applicant,[43] with the aim of launching in spring or early summer 2012.[44] On 15 December 2011, Channel 5 dropped its bid to take the fifth slot after being unable to resolve "issues of commercial importance".[45] Subject to any future Ofcom decision to re-advertise the slot, the capacity will remain with the BBC and can be used by it for BBC services or services provided by a third party via a commercial arrangement.[46] The BBC temporarily used the space to broadcast a high definition simulcast of their main Freeview red button feed for the duration of the 2012 Summer Olympics,[47] followed by a channel from Channel 4 for the 2012 Summer Paralympics.[48] On 13 June 2013, the BBC temporarily launched a high-definition red button stream in the vacant space.[49]

On 16 July 2013, Ofcom announced that up to 10 new HD channels would be launched by early 2014, using new capacity made available by the digital switchover. This provided additional spectrum in the 600Mhz band for additional DVB-T2 multiplexes, reaching up to 70% of the UK population.[19] At the same time, the BBC announced that they would provide five new HD channels due to the newly available capacity: BBC Three HD, BBC Four HD, CBBC HD, CBeebies HD and BBC News HD.[50] BBC Three HD and CBBC HD launched to all viewers on 10 December 2013 using the capacity released by the Red Button HD service, and the other BBC channels launched in some regions, expanding to 70% UK coverage by June 2014.[51]

Channel 5 HD launched on Freeview on 4 May 2016.[52]

In June 2022, it was announced that the COM7 multiplex would be closing due to the license expiring and the frequency used being released for 5G. The BBC announced that they have made provisions for a 6th slot for BBC Four HD and CBeebies HD to move into available capacity that has been newly identified on the PSB3 multiplex which the BBC operates. However, BBC News HD would stop being broadcast on Freeview.[53]

Technical

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The Digital TV Group publishes and maintains the UK technical specification for high-definition services on digital terrestrial television (Freeview) based on the new DVB-T2 standard. The specification is known as the D-book. Freeview HD is the first operational TV service in the world using the DVB-T2 standard. This standard is incompatible with DVB-T, and can only be received using compatible reception equipment.[54] Some television receivers sold before the HD launch claimed to be "HD-ready", but this usually implies that the screen can display HD, rather than that DVB-T2 signals can be received – a suitable tuner (typically built into a STB or PVR) is additionally required. Freeview HD set-top boxes and televisions are available. To qualify for the Freeview HD logo, receivers will need to be IPTV-capable and display Freeview branding, including the logo, on the electronic programme guide screen.[55] The Freeview HD trademark requirements state that any manufacturer applying for the Freeview HD logo should submit their product to the Digital TV Group's test centre (DTG Testing) for conformance testing.

On 2 February 2010, Vestel became the first manufacturer to gain Freeview HD certification, for the Vestel T8300 set top box.[56] Humax released the first Freeview HD reception equipment, the Humax HD-FOX T2, on 13 February 2010.[57]

It was announced on 10 February 2009, that the signal would be encoded with MPEG-4 AVC High Profile Level 4, which supports up to 1080i30/1080p30, so 1080p50 cannot be used.[58] The system has been designed from the start to allow regional variations in the broadcast schedule. Services are statistically multiplexed – bandwidth is dynamically allocated between channels, depending on the complexity of the images – with the aim of maintaining a consistent quality, rather than a specific bit rate. Video for each channel can range between 3 Mbit/s and 17 Mbit/s. AAC or Dolby Digital Plus audio is transmitted at 384 kb/s for 5.1 surround sound, with stereo audio at 128–192 kbit/s; audio description takes up 64 kbit/s, subtitles 200 kbit/s and the data stream, for interactive applications 50 kbit/s.[55] Recording sizes for Freeview HD television transmissions average around 3 GB per hour.[59] Between 22 and 23 March 2011, an encoder software change allowed the Freeview version of BBC HD to automatically detect progressive material and change encoding mode appropriately, meaning the channel can switch to 1080p25.[60] This was extended to all of the other Freeview HD channels in October 2011.

To ensure provision of audio description, broadcasters typically use the AAC codec.[61] Hardware restrictions allow only a single type of audio decoder to operate at any one time, so the main audio and the audio description must use the same encoding family for them to be successfully combined at the receiver. In the case of BBC HD, the main audio is coded as AAC-LC and only the audio description is encoded as HE-AAC.[62] Neither AAC nor Dolby Digital Plus codecs are supported by most home AV equipment, which typically accept Dolby Digital or DTS, leaving owners with stereo, rather than surround sound, output. Transcoding from AAC to Dolby Digital or DTS and multi-channel output via HDMI was not originally necessary for Freeview HD certification. As of June 2010 the DTG D-Book includes the requirement for mandatory transcoding when sending audio via S/PDIF, and for either transcoding or multi-channel PCM audio when sending it via HDMI in order for manufacturers to gain Freeview HD certification from April 2011.[63] Thus equipment sold as Freeview HD before April 2011 may not deliver surround sound to audio equipment (some equipment may, but this is not mandatory); later equipment must be capable of surround sound compatible with most suitable audio equipment.

In early February 2011, it was announced that one million Freeview HD set-top boxes had been sold.[64]

Copy protection

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In August 2009, the BBC wrote to Ofcom after third-party content owners asked the BBC to undertake measures to ensure that all Freeview HD boxes would include copy protection systems as required by the Digital TV Group's D-Book, which sets technical standards for digital terrestrial television in the UK.[65] The BBC proposed to ensure compliance with copy-protection standards on the upgraded Freeview HD multiplex by compressing the service information (SI) data, which receivers need to understand the TV services in the data stream. To encourage boxes to adopt copy protection, the BBC made its own look-up tables and decompression algorithm, necessary for decoding the EPG data on high-definition channels, available without charge only to manufacturers who implement the copy-protection technology. This technology would control the way HD films and TV shows are copied onto, for example Blu-ray discs, and shared with others over the internet. No restrictions will be placed on standard-definition services. In a formal written response, Ofcom principal advisor Greg Bensberg said that wording of the licence would probably need to be changed to reflect the fact that this new arrangement is permitted. The BBC had suggested that as an alternative to the SI compression scheme, the Freeview HD multiplex may have to adopt encryption. Bensberg said that it would appear "inappropriate to encrypt public service broadcast content on DTT".

On 14 June 2010, Ofcom agreed to allow the BBC to limit the full availability of its own and other broadcasters' high definition (HD) Freeview services to receivers that control how HD content can be used.[66] Ofcom concluded that the decision to accept the BBC's request will deliver net benefits to licence-holders by ensuring they have access to the widest possible range of HD television content on DTT.

Freeview HD Recorder

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Freeview HD Recorder (formerly Freeview+, originally named Freeview Playback[67]) is the marketing name for Freeview-capable digital video recorders with some enhancements over the original Freeview.

All recorders are required to include the following features in addition to standard Freeview:[68]

  • At least eight-day electronic programme guide (EPG)
  • Series link (one timer to record whole series)
  • Record split programmes as one programme
  • Offer to record related programme
  • Record alternative showing if there is a time conflict
  • Schedule changes updated in standby (e.g. scheduled recording starting early)
  • Accurate Recording (AR, equivalent to PDC) – programmes are recorded based on signals from the broadcaster rather than scheduled time. (Since this is based on signals from the broadcaster, the broadcaster can prevent recording by sending nonsense signals as a form of copy protection, as already happens on music channels. However, this can be circumvented by specifying a timer recording instead of a programme recording or by connecting the receiver to a traditional videocassette recorder.)[citation needed]

Pace plc introduced the first DTT DVR in the UK in September 2002, called the Pace Twin. However, this was before the Freeview brand and its Playback and + marketing names were introduced.[69]

Freeview Play

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FreeviewPlay logo

Freeview Play combines the existing live television service with catch-up TV (BBC iPlayer, ITVX, STV Player, Channel 4, S4C Clic, My5, U, Pop Player, CBS Catchup Channels UK, Legend) [70] on a variety of compatible TV and set-top boxes via the user's standard broadband Internet connection. Its main purpose is to provide easy access to catch-up services by scrolling backwards on the traditional electronic programming guide (EPG); YouView is a similar but competing combination of live Freeview and catch-up using the EPG.[71]

The technology is an open standard, but with prominent Freeview Play branding. The service launched in October 2015, on compliant equipment, initially 2015 Panasonic TV receivers and Humax set-top boxes, including existing models with a software update. Other manufacturers were announcing new models "later this year [i.e. 2015]".[72] The 2017 specification for Freeview Play includes support for HDR video using hybrid log–gamma (HLG), when playing on-demand broadband content.[73]

Mobile app

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In 2019, Freeview released an app for iOS and Android devices. The app provides a centralised TV guide for 23 channels and the ability to watch them through BBC iPlayer, ITVX, STV Player, Channel 4, My5 and UKTV Play.[74][75]

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Freeview (UK)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Freeview is the United Kingdom's primary (DTT) platform, delivering television channels, radio stations, and interactive services via a rooftop or indoor aerial to 18 million households as of November 2025. Launched on 30 October 2002 as a replacement for the failed ONdigital/ service, it provides access to approximately 100 live TV channels as of November 2025, including major public service broadcasters like , ITV, , and Channel 5, along with a variety of , , and niche content. Operated by (formerly Digital UK), a established in 2023, Freeview is jointly owned by key UK broadcasters including the , , , Channel 5 (owned by ), and , ensuring coordinated management of the DTT multiplexes and electronic programme guide (EPG). The platform supports standard-definition (SD) and high-definition (HD) broadcasts, with HD services introduced in 2010, and requires compatible set-top boxes, integrated digital TVs (iDTVs), or recorders for reception. A key evolution is Freeview Play, launched in 2015, which integrates internet-connected catch-up and on-demand functionality into the platform, offering over 60,000 hours of content across 11 streaming services such as , , All 4, and My5, accessible via broadband (minimum 2 Mbps) on smart TVs, set-top boxes, or the Freeview . This hybrid model has made Freeview the most popular TV platform in the UK, with no subscription fees for core services, though optional enhancements like recording or premium apps may involve costs. Freeview's development reflects the shift from analogue to , achieving nationwide digital switchover between 2008 and 2012, after which it became the default free TV service for most households without pay-TV subscriptions. Recent updates include the addition of new channels in 2025, such as five in October, alongside some closures like children's channels in , and preparations for future internet-only alternatives like Freely, amid declining aerial usage, though DTT remains robust for its reliability and universality.

History

Launch and early years

The collapse of ONdigital, rebranded as in 2001, marked a critical turning point for in the UK. Launched in 1998 as the world's first pay-digital terrestrial service, it struggled with technical issues, high subscription fees, and intense from BSkyB's platform, accumulating debts of over £1 billion before entering administration on 27 March 2002. This failure left the digital spectrum unused and threatened the government's digital switchover plans, prompting public service broadcasters and infrastructure providers to intervene. In response, the , BSkyB, and transmitter operator formed a to relaunch the service as Freeview, a platform emphasizing accessibility without subscriptions. The Independent Television Commission awarded them the vacated DTT licenses in July 2002, allowing reuse of the existing infrastructure. Freeview officially launched on 30 October 2002 at 5:00 am, offering an initial lineup of approximately 25 television channels, including public service staples like , , ITV, , and Channel 5, alongside entertainment options such as , UKTV Style, and music channels like The Hits. The service saw rapid adoption, reaching nearly 3 million households by the end of 2003, driven by affordable set-top boxes priced under £100 and aggressive marketing that highlighted its no-fee model. Technically, Freeview utilized the standard for transmission over the 's established VHF and UHF transmitter network, initially structured across four multiplexes to deliver the channels without paywalls. This setup prioritized broad coverage for about 75% of households, with improvements to signal reliability addressing prior DTT shortcomings. To further ease access, the partnered with TV manufacturers in 2004 to introduce integrated digital tuners (iDTVs), embedding Freeview receivers directly into new televisions and eliminating the need for separate boxes. This innovation boosted convenience and contributed to sustained growth in the platform's early years.

Digital switchover and retunes

The digital switchover in the , which transitioned from analogue to via Freeview, began in earnest on 6 2008 with the first full-scale phase in the Selkirk area of the , where BBC Two analogue signals were switched off across 1,154 transmitters nationwide. The process unfolded regionally over four years, culminating in the complete shutdown of analogue signals in on 24 October 2012, thereby affecting approximately 60 million television sets and enabling universal access to digital services for nearly all households. The switchover was mandated by the UK government through the establishment of Digital UK, a non-governmental body tasked with coordinating the nationwide rollout, with funding primarily drawn from an increase in the television licence fee administered by the to support public service broadcasting obligations. This financial mechanism, approved under the 's charter, allocated resources for infrastructure upgrades, public information efforts, and assistance programs, ensuring that the transition aligned with broader spectrum efficiency goals while minimizing disruption to viewers. A significant nationwide frequency retune occurred on 30 2009, involving changes to digital multiplex allocations to release spectrum in the 800 MHz band for the "digital dividend," which repurposed airwaves for services and impacted around 18 million households requiring manual retuning of Freeview equipment. In regions undergoing active switchover, such as in northwest , additional retunes followed on 4 November 2009, when analogue was fully discontinued and digital signals were boosted, further facilitating the clearance of frequencies while prompting viewers to update channel lists to restore services. To enhance channel navigation on Freeview's electronic programme guide, a genre-based reshuffle took place on 3 September 2014, reallocating children's channels from the LCN 70s range to start at LCN 120 and channels from the LCN 80s to LCN 130, thereby freeing lower numbers for expanding general entertainment options and improving through logical grouping. This update required a one-time retune for affected viewers but was designed to accommodate future channel growth without frequent disruptions. Preparation for the switchover involved extensive public campaigns led by Digital UK, including targeted outreach to vulnerable groups, on-screen announcements from broadcasters, and a dedicated that handled millions of inquiries to guide households on retuning procedures and equipment compatibility. The Switchover Help Scheme, funded by the licence fee, provided free installation and support for over seven million eligible older and disabled individuals, complemented by regional advertising and community events to ensure high awareness and smooth adoption across the 60 million viewers impacted.

Post-switchover changes and challenges

Following the completion of digital switchover in 2012, Freeview underwent several significant operational adjustments to accommodate spectrum reallocation for mobile services. In particular, the closure of the COM8 multiplex on 22 June 2020 was implemented to release frequencies in the 700 MHz band for deployment, resulting in the removal of several HD and +1 channels while enhancing coverage across the . Subsequently, the COM7 multiplex was shut down nationwide on 30 June 2022 for similar reasons, further reducing available capacity on the platform but prioritizing improved rollout, with affected channels such as HD ceasing transmission. A major disruption occurred on 10 August 2021 when a fire at the Bilsdale transmitting mast in destroyed key infrastructure, interrupting Freeview services for approximately 800,000 households across and southern . Temporary low-power broadcasts from alternative sites were established to restore partial coverage, but full services were not reinstated until 22 May 2023 after the construction of a replacement mast, highlighting vulnerabilities in the terrestrial transmission network. In 2020, operational responsibility for Freeview shifted with the formation of a new among the , ITV, , and Channel 5, succeeding Digital UK as the platform operator after Arqiva's withdrawal from shareholding, ensuring continued management of the service amid evolving broadcast demands. This entity, later rebranded as in 2023, has since overseen strategic developments including the integration of connected TV features. The rise of IP-based delivery has introduced Freely, an ad-free streaming complement to Freeview launched in April 2024 by the same broadcasters, offering live linear channels over without an aerial. By 2026, Freeview channels are planned to progressively migrate to Freely for broader aerial-free access, with forecasts indicating that Freely could surpass Freeview in household penetration by 2030 as internet-only TV viewing grows. Ongoing regulatory pressures, including continued spectrum sharing with networks, have prompted periodic channel adjustments in 2025, such as additions on 21 May and 22 October, balancing capacity constraints with content evolution on the platform.

Technical overview

Broadcast standards and multiplexes

Freeview in the employs the standard for standard-definition (SD) services, which was adopted upon its launch in 2002 and utilized video compression until the digital switchover completed in 2012. This standard operates within 8 MHz frequency channels, typically achieving a capacity of around 24 Mbit/s under 64-QAM modulation and 2/3 , enabling multiple SD channels per multiplex. From 2009, Freeview introduced for high-definition (HD) broadcasting, which offers 30-50% greater through advanced features like low-density parity-check (LDPC) coding and higher modulation schemes up to 256-QAM, yielding typical capacities of 40 Mbit/s and a maximum of 45.5 Mbit/s per multiplex. HD services under use MPEG-4/H.264 (also known as AVC) compression, allowing for improved video quality within the available bandwidth. The platform organizes its transmissions into six active multiplexes as of 2020, comprising three Broadcaster (PSB) multiplexes—PSB1 ( A), PSB2 (D3&4), and PSB3 ( B)—dedicated to core public channels from the , ITV, , and Channel 5, and three Commercial (COM) multiplexes—COM4 (SDN), COM5 ( A), and COM6 ( B)—for additional commercial services. PSB1 and PSB2 primarily use for SD content, while PSB3 employs exclusively for HD variants of PSB channels, with COM multiplexes relying on for their SD offerings. Each multiplex's capacity varies slightly by configuration but generally ranges from 24-31 Mbit/s for and up to 40 Mbit/s for , accommodating 4-8 SD channels or 2-4 HD channels depending on bitrate demands and error protection overhead. The Logical Channel Number (LCN) system governs the electronic programme guide (EPG) ordering on Freeview, assigning fixed numbers to channels for consistent user navigation, such as on LCN 1 and on LCN 3. Regional variations apply primarily to PSB channels; for instance, features nation-specific feeds (e.g., , BBC One Wales) that automatically adjust based on viewer location, while includes regional opt-outs like STV in or UTV in , all signaled within the multiplex data streams. Bitrate allocation on PSB multiplexes prioritizes HD content, with channels like typically receiving 15-18 Mbit/s to maintain broadcast quality, allowing PSB3 to support around three to four HD services alongside data services. In contrast, COM multiplexes allocate bitrates more variably for SD channels, often 2-5 Mbit/s per service to fit 6-10 channels, balancing commercial demands with available capacity. Looking ahead, adoption of (HEVC/H.265) is under consideration for future enhancements to support ultra-high definition (UHD), potentially doubling capacity efficiency on multiplexes for additional HD channels without spectrum expansion, with a review planned by 2025. As of 2025, there are discussions about potentially reducing or discontinuing HD services on Freeview due to licence renewals and efficiency considerations.

Coverage and signal transmission

Freeview provides (DTT) services to 98.5% of households through its public service broadcaster (PSB) multiplexes. The transmission infrastructure consists of a network of 1,154 sites managed by , the licensed operator under regulation, encompassing main transmitters and relay stations to extend coverage to remote and rural areas. This setup ensures broad geographic availability, with predicted coverage maps published by illustrating signal reach based on terrain modeling and . Signals are broadcast in the UHF Band IV and V, specifically the 470-694 MHz range following the 2020 spectrum clearance programme that reallocated higher frequencies for mobile services. Transmission employs horizontal polarization to minimize interference and facilitate aerial design compatibility. For operational efficiency, particularly in the PSB multiplexes, a Single Frequency Network (SFN) configuration is utilized, allowing multiple transmitters to share the same frequency within a region while synchronizing signals to avoid overlap issues. Reception quality varies between indoor and outdoor setups, with outdoor aerials generally providing stronger signals due to elevated positioning. In most parts of the , aerials tuned to or B (optimized for channels 21-37) suffice for reliable reception, as post-clearance channel allocations predominantly fall within this lower range. However, in and , where some transmitters operate on higher frequencies (up to channel 48), Group C/D aerials may be necessary to capture the full spectrum without performance degradation. Ofcom's coverage prediction models incorporate signal strength metrics, such as and contours, to guide users on expected reception levels at specific locations. Several environmental and technical factors can impact Freeview signal quality. Terrain features like hills and valleys create line-of-sight obstructions, reducing signal and necessitating transmitters in shadowed areas. Building materials, including brick, , and metal roofing, attenuate UHF signals by absorption or reflection, often leading to weaker indoor reception compared to external installations. Interference from and mobile networks, particularly in the adjacent 600-700 MHz bands, has been a concern since the 4G rollout in 2012; this is commonly mitigated by installing low-cost LTE filters at the aerial input to block unwanted cellular signals while preserving TV frequencies. Additionally, weather conditions such as , , or high-pressure systems can cause temporary signal fade through atmospheric or , though these effects are typically short-lived and self-resolving.

Channels and content

Television channels

Freeview offers a diverse lineup of television channels broadcast via (DTT) in the , encompassing public service broadcaster (PSB) and commercial (COM) multiplexes. As of November 2025, the platform carries approximately 70 standard-definition (SD) channels and 15 high-definition (HD) channels, providing a mix of , entertainment, drama, documentaries, and children's programming available to over 98% of UK households with a suitable aerial and receiver. The PSB channels form the core of Freeview's offering, transmitted on three dedicated multiplexes: PSB1 (BBC A), PSB2 (D3&4), and PSB3 (BBC B). These include flagship national services such as (LCN 1, with regional variations for , , , and ), (LCN 2), (LCN 3, featuring 15 regional variants including STV in and UTV in ), (LCN 4, with nation-specific versions for , —where it is replaced by —and ), and Channel 5 (LCN 5). Additional PSB content includes children's channels like (LCN 80) and (LCN 81) on PSB1, as well as news services such as (LCN 80, timeshared) and (LCN 4 in ). These channels prioritize public interest content, including regional news and educational programming, mandated by regulations. Commercial channels, carried on four COM multiplexes (COM4/SDN, COM5/ARQIVA A, COM6/ARQIVA B for HD, and COM7), expand the lineup with entertainment-focused options. Representative examples include factual channels like Dave (LCN 19), (LCN 18), and Quest (LCN 12) on COM4; drama and movies on (LCN 14) and E4 (LCN 28) via COM5; and lifestyle content on (LCN 41) and (LCN 44) on COM7. The COM multiplexes host around 50 SD channels in total, offering genres from reality TV to shopping and international content, with availability varying slightly by region due to capacity constraints. HD channels are available on PSB3 and COM6, broadcasting at resolution for enhanced picture quality on compatible equipment. Key examples include BBC One HD (LCN 101, with regional variants), BBC Two HD (LCN 102), ITV HD (LCN 103), Channel 4 HD (LCN 104), and 5 HD (LCN 105) on PSB3, alongside commercial HD services like ITV2 HD (LCN 106), ITV3 HD (LCN 107), ITV4 HD (LCN 108), ITVBe HD (LCN 109), CITV HD (LCN 110), and Film4 HD (LCN 306) on COM6. These 15 HD channels provide simulcasts of popular SD content, with regional HD options for major PSBs. Regional variations ensure localized programming, particularly for ITV's 15 regions (e.g., , , ) and Channel 4's nations, while serves Welsh speakers exclusively in on LCN 4. In 2025, Freeview saw several updates approved by , including the addition of Wedotv Movies UK (LCN 98) and (LCN 214) on 22 October for expanded movie and children's content, respectively. On 29 October, five new FAST channels launched on the Trailblazer TV platform (LCN 253): Mystery TV, Inside Crime, History Hunters, Deal Masters, and World War TV, enhancing and historical offerings without requiring a retune in most cases. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to refresh the lineup amid declining linear TV viewership.

Radio and interactive services

Freeview provides access to more than 30 national and local radio stations, enabling listeners to tune into audio broadcasts without subscription fees. These stations are transmitted via the platform's digital terrestrial multiplexes, offering a diverse range of programming from music and news to talk and local content. National stations form a core part of the lineup, broadcast on the A multiplex and accessible via logical channel numbers (LCN) in the 700 series, including (LCN 700) for contemporary music, (LCN 702) for popular hits, (LCN 703) for classical and arts programming, (LCN 704) for news and drama, (LCN 705) for sports and current affairs, and 6 Music (LCN 707) for alternative music. Local radio services, varying by region (e.g., on LCN 711 in ), occupy LCN 711–717 on the same multiplex. Commercial radio stations are primarily carried on the COM4 (SDN), COM5 (ARQ A), and COM6 (ARQ B) multiplexes, which reach approximately 90% of households. Examples include Smooth Radio (LCN 718 on COM5) for , Heart (LCN 728 on COM4) for pop and love songs, Classic FM (LCN 731 on COM4) for classical music, Capital (LCN 724 on COM4) for chart hits, (LCN 723 on COM4) for sports talk, and (LCN 732 on COM4) for news and opinion. Audio for these stations uses the Layer II (MP2) codec, typically at bitrates of 96–192 kbit/s for stereo broadcasts, ensuring compatibility with Freeview receivers while balancing quality and capacity. Interactive services on Freeview enhance user engagement beyond linear broadcasts, with the serving as a primary feature accessible by pressing the red button on compatible remotes while viewing channels. This service delivers supplementary content such as live news updates, weather forecasts, sports results, and interactive games, often organized under LCNs in the 100–199 range for targeted sections like (around LCN 101) or weather (around LCN 141). integrates interactive elements including +1 time-shift options for catch-up viewing and enriched programme details within the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG), allowing users to explore schedules and related content seamlessly. Text services persist in digital formats on Freeview, evolving from traditional to interactive overlays. Channel 5 offers a digital text service on LCN 180, providing subtitles, news headlines, and programme information. Regional ITV services include similar digital variants, delivering localized content like weather and traffic updates tailored to viewer areas. These services, managed by providers like , continue post-analogue closure, focusing on accessibility and integration with the EPG. Since 2012, Freeview has discontinued subscription-based data services, shifting emphasis to free enhancements such as forecasts and radio station listings embedded directly in the EPG for convenient navigation without additional costs.

Reception equipment

Tuners and set-top boxes

To receive Freeview broadcasts, viewers require a compatible digital tuner, either integrated into a or provided via an external . Integrated Digital Television (iDTV) sets with built-in Freeview tuners became standard in the UK market following the digital switchover preparations, with all new televisions sold after 2010 featuring this capability as a default to ensure compatibility with terrestrial digital signals. These integrated tuners support the standard for standard-definition content and, in models from around 2012 onward, the standard necessary for high-definition (HD) channels, along with an MPEG-4 (H.264) decoder to process compressed HD video streams efficiently. This legislative and market-driven shift, tied to the completion of the digital switchover by 2012, eliminated the need for separate equipment for most new purchases, promoting widespread adoption of Freeview without additional hardware costs. For households with older analogue or basic digital televisions, or those seeking enhanced functionality, external set-top boxes remain a viable option. Freeview-certified set-top boxes, produced by manufacturers such as Humax, , and Bush, connect via aerial input and or outputs to decode and display signals on existing screens. Basic models typically retail for £20 to £60, offering core channel access, while personal video recorder (PVR) variants with built-in hard drives for recording up to several hundred hours of content range from £70 to £100 or more, depending on storage capacity and features. Newer iterations, introduced since the mid-2010s, incorporate advanced capabilities like HDR () support for improved color and contrast in compatible content, as well as 4K upscaling to enhance standard and HD broadcasts on ultra-high-definition displays, ensuring future-proofing amid evolving broadcast standards. Essential technical requirements for Freeview tuners include compliance with the specification for full HD access, an MPEG-4 decoder to handle the compression used in HD transmissions, and support for remote retuning to automatically update channel lineups during multiplex changes without manual intervention. Many models also feature a Plus (CI+) slot, which allows insertion of modules for integrating subscription-based pay-TV services alongside free-to-air Freeview channels, though this is optional for standard usage. These specifications ensure seamless reception of over 70 channels and 30 radio stations, with energy-efficient designs adhering to regulatory standards for electronic devices. Compatibility challenges arise with legacy equipment, particularly older set-top boxes limited to the original DVB-T standard, which became obsolete for HD content following the Freeview HD launch in late 2009 and subsequent frequency reallocations. These devices can still receive standard-definition channels but fail to decode DVB-T2 signals, rendering them inadequate for the complete Freeview lineup post-switchover. In contrast, all televisions sold in the UK since approximately 2012 include Freeview HD tuners as standard, bridging the gap and minimizing the need for upgrades in modern households.

Aerials and installation

To receive Freeview signals reliably, an appropriate aerial is essential for capturing the UHF transmissions from local transmitters. The recommended type is a aerial, designated as Group W or Type T, which covers the full range of UHF frequencies used for Freeview (channels 21 to 48) across groups A, B, C, and D, ensuring compatibility post-digital switchover. These aerials typically employ a Yagi , featuring a driven element, directors, and a reflector for directional gain of 10-15 dB, which amplifies weaker signals without excessive . In urban areas with strong signal strength, a loft-mounted aerial may suffice if unobstructed by roofing materials, while rural or fringe reception areas benefit from a roof-mounted installation to maximize and line-of-sight to the transmitter. Installation begins with a to identify the nearest transmitter and optimal aerial direction, often using a portable signal meter to measure strength and quality on key multiplex frequencies like channel 21 ( A) or 48 (COM 6). Secure the aerial to a mast or with brackets, ensuring it points toward the transmitter as indicated by tools like the 's Transmitter Checker. Connect using low-loss coaxial cable, rated for minimal signal over distances up to 50 meters, and seal all joints against weather. For multi-room distribution, incorporate a powered at the aerial head or a distribution unit supporting up to four outlets without significant loss, powered via the coaxial line from the TV or . installers, certified by bodies like the Confederation of Aerial Industries, handle complex setups, while DIY options suit straightforward loft installs with basic tools. Common reception issues can often be resolved through . Start by verifying predicted coverage using the official Freeview Checker tool, entering a postcode to confirm available channels and transmitter details. Perform an automatic retune on the TV or via the settings menu, which scans all frequencies; if channels remain missing, initiate a manual retune by inputting specific UHF channels from the checker (e.g., 21, 24, 27 for PSB multiplexes). For interference from mobile networks operating in the 700 MHz band, install a free from the Restore TV scheme, fitted inline between the aerial cable and device to block mobile signals above approximately 694 MHz while passing Freeview frequencies up to 690 MHz; contact Restore TV at 0808 1313 800 for eligibility and dispatch. Ensure cables are undamaged and connections tight, repositioning the aerial slightly if needed for peak signal. Basic aerial installations typically cost £100-£200, covering materials and labor for a single outlet; DIY approaches reduce this to £50-£100 for the aerial and cable, though professional services are advised for roof work to comply with safety standards.

Freeview HD and recording

Freeview HD was introduced as a high-definition extension to the standard Freeview service, launching on 2 December 2009 with initial transmissions of BBC HD and ITV HD from select transmitter sites such as Winter Hill and Crystal Palace. Channel 4 HD joined the lineup on 30 March 2010, followed by Channel 5 HD on 4 May 2016, marking the addition of the four primary public service broadcaster HD channels. By 2025, the service had expanded to include over 15 HD channels, encompassing additional offerings like BBC Two HD, ITV2 HD, and E4 HD, alongside the core channels. The technical implementation of Freeview HD relies on the standard, utilizing the PSB3 (BBC B) multiplex for public service broadcaster HD content and the COM6 ( B) multiplex for select commercial HD services, enabling higher data rates within the available spectrum. These channels are broadcast in resolution at 50 Hz, with typical video bitrates ranging from 8 to 10 Mbit/s to ensure quality while accommodating multiple services per multiplex. To protect content, HDMI outputs on compatible receivers enforce (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) for secure transmission to displays. Recording capabilities for Freeview HD are supported through dedicated set-top boxes and integrated TV recorders compatible with the service, particularly those featuring Freeview Play for enhanced functionality. Devices such as the Humax Aura offer 1 TB or greater internal storage, allowing users to record up to four HD programs simultaneously while viewing a fifth, with features including series link for automatic episode capture, live pause, and rewind. These recorders do not include cloud-based storage options, relying instead on local hard drives, though users can expand playback capabilities via USB-connected external drives for media transfer and viewing. In 2022, the distinct Freeview HD branding was retired as part of a platform evolution, with HD channels fully integrated into the core Freeview lineup to simplify consumer awareness and licensing for manufacturers. This shift coincided with capacity adjustments on the COM6 multiplex, leading to the removal of some secondary HD channels like CBBC HD and CBeebies HD, but maintaining availability of primary HD services on the PSB3 multiplex. In 2025, consultations are underway regarding potential reductions in HD channel capacity starting in 2026 to support other broadcast priorities.

Freeview Play and mobile access

Freeview Play, launched in October 2015, represents a hybrid evolution of the Freeview service, rebranding the platform to integrate terrestrial digital broadcasts with internet-enhanced on-demand capabilities. This service combines live TV reception via aerial with broadband-connected features, enabling seamless access to catch-up and streaming content without the need for multiple apps or subscriptions for core broadcasters. Access to on-demand services through Freeview Play requires a connection with a minimum speed of 2 Mbit/s, supporting platforms such as , , All 4, and My5. Key features include a 7-day catch-up option embedded within the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG), allowing users to scroll back and view recent episodes directly alongside live listings. Additional functionalities encompass universal search for content across services and curated recommendations to personalize viewing suggestions. Since 2016, Freeview Play has been certified for compatibility with numerous television models from leading manufacturers, including and , ensuring broad availability on smart TVs and set-top boxes that meet the hybrid platform's technical standards. This process has enabled integration into over hundreds of devices, facilitating pause, rewind, and on-demand playback when paired with compatible recorders. In January 2019, Freeview introduced its dedicated mobile app for devices, followed by an Android version in July of the same year, extending the platform's reach to smartphones and tablets. The app supports live TV streaming over or mobile data connections, providing access to Freeview channels and integrated on-demand players, while featuring a comprehensive programme guide and reminder functions. However, it does not include full recording capabilities, focusing instead on streaming and discovery tools that count toward users' data allowances. Freeview Play also integrates with the Freely streaming service, which shares partial channel overlap with core Freeview offerings from , ITV, , and Channel 5, enabling aerial-free access to these via the Freely app. Starting in 2026, Freely will expand to include additional Freeview services, further enhancing internet-only viewing options without compromising on live and on-demand content availability.

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