Freeview users must check their TVs today - new channels and updates launch
It's been a big week for Freeview with Sky launching a new channel on the platform along with numerous other changes. Here's all you need to know and how to get the updates.
Freeview has had a pretty major makeover this week with a swathe of changes and new channels being added to the popular platform. The free-to-view service has confirmed that a total of four new channels have now arrived in homes including the addition of Sky Mix which brings premium shows to Freeview, such as Cobra, Rob & Romesh Vs and A League of Their Own, for the very first time.
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Along with Sky Mix, there's also the addition of Amazing Facts, Nyx (a movie service) and Mech + (offers access to shows such as Robot Wars), which are being made available via the Freeview Play streaming option.
If that wasn't enough, there are over 10 channels which are getting new names from this week including some regional services along with the popular 'That's' services.
Freeview introduce their new Play streaming service in 2021
Here's the full list of Freeview Channel Rebrands
WAS Birmingham TV - NOW TalkBirmingham • Channel 7
WAS Bristol TV - NOW TalkBristol • Channel 7
WAS Cardiff TV - NOW TalkCardiff • Channel 8
WAS Leeds TV - NOW TalkLeeds • Channel 7
WAS Liverpool TV - NOW TalkLiverpool • Channel 7
WAS North Wales TV - NOW TalkNorthWales • Channel 8
WAS Teesside TV - NOW TalkTeesside • Channel 7
WAS Tyne & Wear TV - NOW TalkTyne&Wear • Channel 7
WAS That’s 60s - NOW That’s Christmas • Channel 65
WAS That’s 70s - NOW That’s 60s • Channel 71
WAS That’s 80s - NOW That’s 90s • Channel 75
WAS That’s 60s MCR - NOW That’s Christmas MCR • Channel 76
WAS That’s 70s MCR - NOW That’s 60s MCR • Channel 77
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New channels coming to Freeview
Amazing Facts • Channel 288 via streaming
Nyx • Channel 289 via streaming
Mech + • Channel 290 via streaming
Sky Mix • Channel 11
If you want to take advantage of this update you may need to retune your TV or set-top box with Freeview saying, "On 18 October 2023 some broadcasters are making important changes to their channels. You will need to retune to update your TV and keep your channels and TV Guide up to date. "
How to retune your device
Freeview says retuning is straightforward, and while it may vary slightly depending on which device you have, it usually includes the following steps:
• Press menu on your box or TV remote control
• Select ‘set-up’, ‘installation’, ‘update’ or a similar option. If you’re asked for a password, the default code is ‘1234’ or ‘0000’.
• Select ‘first-time installation’ (sometimes called ‘factory reset’, ‘full retune’ or ‘default settings’).
• Press ‘OK’ if your equipment asks if it's OK to delete existing channels and then your retune should start automatically. If you’re prompted to, save the channels that are found.
