RXTV’s Daniel Sutton explains the origins and functionality of YouView:
Launched in 2012, YouView was the UK’s first fully hybrid TV platform, bringing together online and terrestrial TV in the same programme guide.
It’s supported by the main UK free-to-air broadcasters, including the BBC and ITV, plus internet service providers BT and TalkTalk.
What does YouView do?
YouView combines live Freeview TV with seven day catchup on BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4 and My5, plus a library of on demand television programmes, films and radio. Additional content includes Netflix, Now TV, milkshake!, UKTV Play, STV, S4C and POP FUN. YouView receivers can record, pause and rewind TV and can perform a simple search function.
How do I get YouView?
You can buy a YouView box from major electrical retailers. Selected premium range Sony Smart TVs also have YouView functionality built-in.
But the most common way of getting YouView is via BT, Plusnet and TalkTalk – it’s the platform that powers the TV services offered by these Internet Service Providers.
In addition to the standard features of YouView, the three providers insert additional subscription channels that appear between channels 300-599, so for example BT TV’s channels will appear in this range if you have a BT YouView box.
Connections
Your YouView box connects to the internet which allows new features and content providers to be regularly added ensuring your box is always up to date. It is also connected to your TV aerial (not a satellite dish), to receive Freeview channels.
HD and 4K UHD
Viewers will receive the main five channels in HD. Beyond this, reception of HD channels is subject to local Freeview coverage. BT and Plusnet TV viewers have access to additional HD channels, if they opt for the relevant HD channel package. BT also offers a 4K UHD sports channel and Netflix also has a 4K UHD option (subject to subscription type)
Channel numbering
YouView’s channel numbering is shared with Freeview – so anything between channels 1-299 and 600-799 are the same on both YouView and Freeview.
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