Why are BBC channels disappearing from Freesat and Sky?

THE BBC is undergoing a huge HD switch via satellite which could affect how you receive the broadcaster’s channels.

All SD (standard definition) versions of the BBC‘s channels will go dark next year.

1

They’ll be replaced with HD only broadcasts.

For most people with modern set top boxes you won’t notice any difference.

But some viewers with old Sky or Freesat boxes will have to change theirs to continue receiving BBC One and other channels.

Can you still get BBC SD?

For now, you can still get the BBC’s channels in SD.

But they will disappear for good by March 2024.

Affected boxes have started seeing a popup message to warn them of the changes.

Old Sky and Freesat systems only capable of handling SD channels will no longer be able to receive the BBC’s channels once the switch is completed.

If you’re not sure whether you’re affected, there’s a way to tell.

Sky users can go to channel 105.

If it says “Channel 5 HD”, then you’re fine.

But if it shows “Channel 5” without HD at the end then you’ll be impacted and need to upgrade.

On Freesat, you can go to channel 799 – an automatic message will tell you if you’re affected.

Is the BBC moving to HD only?

Yes, the BBC is making its channels on satellite HD only.

But the SD versions of its channels won’t be gone completely until March next year.

This gives any affected viewers time to upgrade their boxes.

The BBC is offering support to some people, including vouchers towards a new box.

Check out hdsatelliteupgrade.co.uk to find out if you’re eligible.

We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at [email protected]