What is Digital TV?
This guide will help you understand why digital TV is better than traditional analogue and what options are available to you, so you can then decide which service you want.
Digital TV defined
Digital TV is simply a different way of delivering programmes to the method used since TV was invented. It has many advantages over the old analogue method, as digital TV is more efficient to deliver, with more channels and better quality TV service with improved picture and sound. Between 2008 and 2012 the government will be switching analogue off, region by region, so everyone can get digital TV and enjoy the benefits.
Do I have to get digital TV?
The digital TV switchover means that all TVs in the UK will have to be able to receive digital TV signals by the end of 2012. It’s quite likely you already have a digital service on one of your TVs, but all of your TVs will need to be digital TV ready throughout your house.
If you currently only get the traditional TV channels (BBC1, BBC2, ITV, Channel 4 and Five) on any of your TVs then you will need make sure you get digital when your region switches over. To find out more about the switchover, see our digital switchover guide
Why should I get digital TV?
The government’s decision to switch off the analogue signal means we have no choice but move to digital. However there are lots of benefits:
- Extra TV channels at no extra cost – you will receive your usual 5 channels plus many more as standard including BBC3, ITV2, E4, More4, Dave, CBeebies and Sky News.
- Digital radio channels including BBC Radio 1, Kiss and Heart.
- The option to subscribe to more channels, including those dedicated to Sports and Movies..
- Access to a range of interactive services (via the red button on your remote). You can see extra news stories, check sports results, travel information and weather forecasts, play games and even go shopping and use email.
- Most digital TV services include a guide to the coming weeks TV programmes, with a reminder feature.
- HD (High Definition) TV services from Sky, Virgin Media and Freesat give an amazing viewing experience.
- Digital TV recorders such as Sky+ and Virgin Media’s V+ Box let TV revolve around you as you can pause and rewind live TV and record all your favourite programmes.
What are my options?
You need to choose a digital service that is right for you. If you only watch TV occasionally then a simple Freeview box would be ideal, but if you are interested in premium channels, sports or movies, then you are better off getting a subscription service, such as Sky or Virgin Media. With all the options, you need to make sure all your TVs receive digital, so they will continue to work after the switchover.