The UK government is expected to publish a green paper in the coming weeks outlining plans to switch off terrestrial television, moving the nation towards internet-based streaming within a decade. This shift would end the Freeview service, which relies on airwaves, making television access dependent on internet connectivity.
Planned Transition to Streaming
According to reports, the government will seek assurances that streaming interfaces are user-friendly and that providers support those transitioning. A full switch-off is pencilled for 2034 under current legislation. In 2023, 17% of UK households relied solely on digital terrestrial television, avoiding satellite, cable, or streaming services.
Broadcaster Support and Opposition
Major broadcasters including BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 back the transition, citing high maintenance costs for signals used by a declining audience. However, telecoms company Arqiva, which provides terrestrial TV infrastructure, leads the Broadcast 2040+ coalition advocating for a delay to 2040 or later. They argue the move could harm older people and lower-income households who depend on Freeview.
Historical Context
The UK previously transitioned from analogue to digital TV in October 2012. A report for Sky in January supported a full shift to internet-provided TV by the 2030s, which would also phase out satellite and cable services.
