Free TV box voucher ends next week after BBC and ITV channel 'switch off'
Brits have been warned they have until the end of next week to claim a free TV box replacement voucher, after major changes saw more than a dozen channels disappear.
The BBC and ITV axed their remaining SD (Standard Definition) channels on satellite in early January.
It's all part of a massive plan to upgrade the stations so they are in modern high-definition (HD) instead.
However, this meant that anyone with an older box may have lost access to multiple channels altogether.
It affected Freesat and Sky boxes which can only handle SD channels.
The BBC launched a support program for those affected to help them with the cost of a new device.
But the window to ask for help closes next week, on February 16.
“If you still need advice or support, we strongly encourage you to take action now while support is available,” the HD Satellite Upgrade website says.
“No further support for upgrades will be available after February 16.”
What's the point?
Analysis by Jamie Harris, Senior Technology and Science Reporter
Broadcasters have long had two versions of their channels, in SD and HD.
While there are still many SD channels, HD is finally becoming the norm.
And the vast majority of people now also have a TV with HD support.
It therefore makes less sense for broadcasters to continue to offer both, because these are operational costs.
Please note that this only affects the satellite; cable and Freeview are unaffected.
Freeview will still offer many more SD channels as it has limited space, meaning it's impossible to deliver all channels in HD with current technology.
However, the company behind Freeview is launching a new service this year called Freely, which could get around that problem – read more about it here.
Am I eligible for an upgrade?
Those with Freesat will be offered £40 worth of vouchers towards the cost of a brand new box if they meet certain criteria.
But the definition is a bit vague, with the website stating that it is aimed at “an older audience or those who need extra support”.
Although you may receive a £40 voucher, you will have to pay the remainder of the cost of a replacement device – and these usually cost at least £70.
If you think you are eligible, you can visit hdsatelliteupgrade.co.uk or call 0330 123 1876.
Free Sky upgrade
Sky customers can get a free upgrade to Sky Q at no extra cost.
To qualify, you must use one of the following Skybox models:
Digibox
- 4F01 to 4F08 (Amstrad)
- 4E01 to 4E05 (Grundig)
- 9F01 to 9F08 and 9F0A (tempo)
- 0F01 to 0F05 (Panasonic)
- 4E06 to 4E08 (Thomson)
Heaven+
- 4F2001 to 4F2006 (Amstrad)
- 4F2101 to 4F2118 and 9F2101 to 9F2137 (Amstrad or Pace)
- 9F2001 to 9F2024, PVR2, 9F2201 to 9F2235, 9F2301 to 9F2339 (tempo)
- 4E2101 to 4E2141 (Thomson)
How to lower your streaming bills with the best FREE TV
Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime aren't cheap – and subscription costs seem to be rising year after year.
Fortunately, there are a lot of free streaming TV alternatives that not everyone knows about.
And we're not just talking about BBC iPlayer and ITVX.
Here are some free alternatives worth trying: