In addition to the previously announced changes which will see UKTV’s W channel launch on channel 25, a number of other changes are now confirmed.
New streaming services are being added, there’s a change for HD viewers in Wales and some channels won’t have the same UK coverage as before. The changes happen around midday on Monday 28th March 2022.
W will replace Dave Ja Vu on channel 25 in what is expected to be seamless switch from one channel to another. Likewise, Dave Ja Vu will then replace Drama+1 on channel 74.
You won’t need to retune to get W or keep Dave Ja Vu, but the following changes may require a retune depending on you are:
Drama+1
Drama+1 will stay on Freeview after Dave Ja Vu takes its current slot. It will move to channel 60 following a retune. The main service on channel 20 is not affected.
ITV4+1
ITV4+1 – which is a placeholder service on Freeview, only broadcasting limited hours in the early hours – moves from channel 60 to 89.
Wales HD changes
In Wales, S4C HD (channel 110) and Channel 4 HD (channel 104) will swap places, meaning S4C HD will move to 104.
S4C HD launched earlier this year on Freeview. However, it is only available after 7pm on weeknights and after 2pm at the weekend. It is currently not a full-time simulcast of the SD channel on channel 4 in Wales.
Together
Together – the former Community Channel – is also affected by changes to its coverage. Remaining on channel 83, viewers will have to retune to continue watching the channel. But some viewers may no longer receive the service after 28th March as a result of coverage changes.
Ideal Extra
The shopping channel on Freeview channel 94 – currently only available in some parts of the UK – will close.
New streaming channels
Viewers with compatible Freeview Play TVs and boxes will be able to stream Asharq News on channel 272 and the Al Arabiya news channel via channels 273.
Adult channel changes
Xpanded TV on channel 678 will be moving multiplexes. Viewers will need to retune to continue watching, but some viewers may no longer receive the service after 28th March as a result of coverage changes.
After the changes are implemented, Freeview’s channel checker will be updated to show which channels are still available in your area.
Our Freeview Updates page will also carry technical information regarding the changes.
Most of the above changes relate to minor channels, so if you don’t watch the above channels, it isn’t urgent if you need someone to assist you or you don’t like retuning your TV.