TL;DR
The government confirmed in its Media Green Paper (published 23 June 2026) that Freeview (DTT) will be maintained until at least 31 December 2034. A possible extension to 31 December 2044 is being consulted on. After that, television will move to internet-based delivery (IPTV). Over 4 million homes in the UK still use Freeview as their primary TV service.
Last reviewed: 23 June 2026
Key Facts: Freeview Switch-Off
|
What is Freeview and why is it being phased out?
Freeview - technically known as digital terrestrial television (DTT) - delivers television signals through rooftop aerials connected to land-based transmitters. It provides access to BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and a range of other free channels without a subscription or internet connection.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport confirmed in its Media Green Paper, published 23 June 2026, that the cost of maintaining the fixed DTT transmitter network is becoming economically unsustainable as viewing habits shift toward internet-delivered content. Broadcasters bear the cost of running this infrastructure even as fewer households use it as their primary TV source.
When will Freeview switch off?
The government has committed to maintaining DTT services until at least 31 December 2034. The green paper consults on two options:
- Option A: switch off on expiry of current broadcast licences on 31 December 2034
- Option B: a time-limited extension to 31 December 2044
No final decision has been made. A decision will follow after consultation responses are analysed. Any transition would be accompanied by communications explaining what is changing, when, and what viewers need to do.
What replaces Freeview?
The replacement for Freeview is internet protocol television (IPTV) - watching television through a broadband internet connection rather than a rooftop aerial. Services like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, My5 and Channel 4 already deliver content via IPTV and can be accessed on smart TVs, streaming sticks, tablets and computers.
Unlike Freeview, IPTV does not require an aerial signal. Most smart TVs sold in the last five years are already capable of receiving IPTV without additional equipment.
What if a household does not have broadband?
The government has stated it will work with industry on a support programme for households without internet access or with devices that cannot receive IPTV. The green paper states the transition will require "consistent and accessible communications explaining what is changing, when, and what audiences need to do". The support programme is yet to be designed and will involve PSM providers, telecoms providers, device manufacturers, retailers and charities.
Do you need a new TV?
Not before 2034. Most smart TVs manufactured after 2018 already include apps for BBC iPlayer, ITVX, My5 and Channel 4, receiving those channels via IPTV without a Freeview aerial. Older televisions without internet capability would need either a smart TV replacement or a streaming device (such as a Roku, Amazon Fire Stick or Google Chromecast) to access IPTV.
Freeview remains fully operational until at least 2034. No action is required by viewers now.
What about satellite TV?
The satellite network is separate from DTT and is not affected by the Freeview switch-off plans. The consultation covers DTT specifically.
Is Freeview being switched off in 2026?
No. The government has confirmed Freeview will continue until at least 31 December 2034. The green paper published on 23 June 2026 is a consultation on what happens after 2034, not an announcement of an imminent switch-off.
Will viewers lose their channels when Freeview switches off?
No. Channels available on Freeview will continue to broadcast via IPTV. The switch-off affects the transmission method, not the content.
What is IPTV?
Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) delivers television through a broadband internet connection rather than an aerial. Smart TVs, computers, tablets and streaming sticks can all receive IPTV. Services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX already use this technology.
What will happen to households without internet access?
The government has committed to developing a support programme for households that would struggle to transition. Details have not yet been finalised. No household will be required to switch before accessible communications and support are in place.
What is the DCMS Media Green Paper?
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport published its Media Green Paper - titled "Watch This Space" - on 23 June 2026. It sets out the government proposed strategic direction for UK media policy, covering broadcasting regulation, public service media reform and the future of TV distribution.
Related Guides
