Hidden channels on DSAT appear to confirm the BBC plans to close down standard definition TV services next year.
A text-based caption on one of the test channels reads:
“The BBC is making all of its services available in HD on satellite. As a result, standard definition (SD) services will be closing.
“From early 2023, the SD versions of BBC channels will not carry local programming from your area. And later in the year, SD versions of BBC channels on satellite will close entirely.”
The messages on the (currently) hidden channels will soon be presented on channel 799 on Freesat, instructing viewers on whether or not their satellite receiver needs upgraded.
Viewers with old, SD-only Sky/Freesat receivers will have to upgrade or risk losing their BBC TV services next year.
The BBC has not yet publicly confirmed the closure of SD services, though a public information campaign is expected to kick off within days.
Our thanks to Steve Cowie for alerting us about the content of the hidden test channels.
Acknowledgements
PICTURED: various satellite dishes. COPYRIGHT: unknown.
I think it’s safe to say that absolutely nobody saw this one coming! Auntie Beeb having taken about 94,000 years to finally bring the English Regions to BBC One HD, who could’ve predicted they’d lead the way in terms of full SD switch-off plans?! I presume that it’ll be a straight swap, with the Red Screen Of Death moving to the SD channel for its final few months of existence.