Another well-known channel is making changes to its rules, which could affect some Sky TV users.
Anyone who hasn't updated their Sky box for a long time will probably need to brace themselves for the changes. Several content providers, including the BBC and ITV, have already stopped broadcasting in standard definition (SD), and now Channel 4 has also confirmed that it will stop its SD service later this month and only broadcast programmes in high definition.
In addition to the main channel, all other SD services such as C4+1, 4Seven, E4, More4, E4 Extra and Film 4 will also be axed, which is bad news for those who enjoy shows such as Grand Designs, Location, Location, Location, Made in Chelsea and Married at First Sight.
Essentially, this means that owners of older Sky SD boxes will have little or no content left to watch.
Sky has been warning SD TV users to upgrade to new equipment for months now, and is even offering a free upgrade to the more modern Sky Q.
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“You can switch to Sky Q at no extra cost. Upgrade online or call 0333 759 5121 – we recommend you do this as soon as possible to avoid long waits,” Sky explained.
“Your new receiver will be installed by one of our engineers at a time that suits you. You will then be able to access all the Sky channels on your Sky TV package.”
After the update, the full list of channels will be restored, but if you're still using a very old device, then you really should consider upgrading.
Confirming the SD channels were being shut down, a Channel 4 spokesman told The Sun: “We are upgrading the technology used to deliver our channels to Sky and Freesat households to ensure everyone has the best possible HD viewing experience and to pave the way for new services in the future.”
“As Sky subscribers are encouraged to upgrade to HD boxes, this will only affect a very small number of viewers.
“This follows similar moves by ITV and Sky earlier this year.
“All of our channels, as well as a wide range of on-demand content, are also available on Channel 4 to stream on smart TVs, mobile devices, tablets and PCs.
“Sky customers can upgrade to new equipment free of charge.
“There will be no changes for Freeview and Virgin Media customers, or satellite viewers with HD boxes.”
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Check if your Sky box is affected:
Select channel 101 on your remote. If you see BBC One HD then this will not affect you. If you see BBC One in SD then this will affect you and you will need to update your Sky box.
Or;
Press 'Services' on your Sky remote control, then press 4, then 5.
Check the version number
Affected models:
Digibox
4F01 – 4F08 (Amstrad)
4E01 to 4E05 (Grundig)
9F01 to 9F08 and 9F0A (Temp)
0F01 – 0F05 (Panasonic)
4E06 to 4E08 (Thomson)
Sky+
4F2001 to 4F2006 (Amstrada)
4F2101 – 4F2118 and 9F2101 – 9F2137 (Amstrad or Pace)
9F2001 to 9F2024, PVR2, 9F2201 to 9F2235, 9F2301 to 9F2339 (Temp)
4E2101 to 4E2141 (Thomson)
Sourse: www.mirror.co.uk