BT TV subscribers have become EE TV subscribers. A software update brings some changes for viewers. But not everything has gone smoothly.
- The official rebrand took place earlier today.
- EE have even changed the light on some BT boxes
- But some users report difficulties ordering the new service.
The EE TV name is back from today. Not to be confused with the original, defunct service originally launched by EE before it was acquired by BT, EE TV is the new name for the hybrid TV service that combines streaming and regular linear TV broadcasts.
Users of the latest TV Box Pro and TV Box Mini may have noticed an immediate change without looking at the TV screen. The light on the box has changed from BT purple to EE’s aqua brand colour thanks to a software update. It’s a technological far cry from when ITV Digital sent subscribers stickers to place over the old branding…
The update has also introduced new interfaces, but BT has assured its existing TV subscribers that any settings made before the change will be maintained. The same is true for recordings and favourites.
The rebrand is the latest in BT’s plan to move consumer-facing services to EE, while BT itself focuses on business and enterprise products. In addition to the TV interface, app and TV store have been rebranded.
Contractually, nothing changes, so viewers will for now continue on the same terms and contract period as before.
As an extra perk, EE TV customers can claim three months of Apple TV+ for free. Viewers will move on to the standard £8.99 Apple TV+ at the end of the promotional period.
Devices
In addition to the TV Box Pro and Mini, EE TV also offers access to the service via an Apple TV 4K box. The Apple TV 4K box issued by EE TV includes a bespoke EE-branded remote. Any Apple TV 4K offered by EE remains the property of EE. Existing (non-EE) Apple TV 4K Boxes won’t support the full EE TV service, so customers will need to request one from EE.
Older BT TV (YouView) boxes can still be used to access television services, but the emphasis is now on newer boxes, that can receive TV services via the internet, doing away with the need for an aerial. While EE TV’s internet based service includes more HD channels, some Freeview channels via an aerial are still not carried on EE’s internet service.
Issues
But some ex-BT TV users say the software update has broken some things. Issues include the remote not controlling the TV anymore. There’s also reports of buggy boxes that lag or lose connectivity since the update.
Meanwhile, An RXTV reader who is with EE told us that they’ve had problems ordering the new service over the phone. This has since been confirmed by multiple comments in EE’s own community forum. Those teething issues are expected to be resolved later in the week.
▶ Support options
Ex-BT TV customers
- BT continues to handle billing and any transactions.
- BT’s website continues to provide proactive support for users who’ve migrated.
EE customers
- Users joining EE and existing EE users upgrading will find all support and account management options on the EE website.
- Useful to know: EE customers need to be on ‘new EE broadband’ to get EE TV.
Marc Thornham