Here is our guide designed to help you understand the terminology used when buying a Freeview device.
- What is Freeview?
- What are Freeview +, Freeview Plus, Freeview Playback?
- Equipment – our guide to different types of Freeview devices
- Features – a Freeview related dictionary
- Alternatives – What else can I get besides Freeview?
- FAQs
What is Freeview?
Freeview is the the easy way to get free digital TV in the UK. It offers 48 digital tv channels and numerous digital radio stations, usually with better picture and audio than most analogue channels. Once you have bought a Freeview device, there are no monthly charges and no contracts.
When the Digital Switchover takes place in the UK, you will no longer be able to view traditional TV channels (BBC1, BBC2, ITV, Channel 4, Five etc) using an analogue TV – at this point you will need a Digital TV Tuner – for example a TV with digital tuner built in, or a Digital TV set-top-box, like a Freeview box. The digital switch has already started in some regions, and is due to take place between now and 2012 in other regions. Visit the Digital UK website to find out the exact dates for your region.
While most regions have a fairly good digital tv coverage already, it is worth checking to see if your area is already covered. There is a Freeview Coverage Checker available (see the bottom fo this page for a link), however it’s not always 100% accurate – sometimes leading you to believe you wont be able to receive Freeview when you can, and vice-versa. Our advice is to speak to your neighbours – the likelihood is some of your neighbours will already have a Freeview device and will be able to tell you whether they can receive the full range of Freeview channels.
Useful articles:
Useful links:
(INSERT LINK TO DIGITAL UK HERE)
(INSERT LINK TO FREEVIEW COVERAGE CHECKER)
