If you’re using an older Sky TV set-top box then it’s worth checking the settings to see if you are eligible for a free upgrade. Those with ageing devices have already been blocked from watching BBC services and soon there will also be a block on platforms such as Sky Cinema and Sky Sports.
The changes are all due to many Standard Definition (SD) channels being switched off for good in a bid to clear some congestion. That means if you don’t have an HD-ready device in your living room – such as Sky Q, Sky Stream or Sky Glass – things will no longer work from May 2024.
“We’re changing how we deliver our TV services. This means if you have an SD box, you’ll need to upgrade to continue watching Sky channels,” Sky explained in a post on its website. “In May, you’ll lose access to: Sky Sports channels, Sky Cinema channels and MUTV channel.”
Luckily, most Sky users have already switched to something new but if you still have a standard Sky box under your TV then it’s definitely time to make a change.
There are two ways to check if your Sky box is affected.
Firstly, you can select channel 101 on your remote. If you see BBC One HD, you’re not affected. If you don’t see any content on the screen (BBC1 SD has now closed) you are and you’ll need to upgrade your Sky box.
The next way to check is to Press Services on your Sky remote. The Press 4 then 5
Check the version number of the box. If it matches any of the devices listed below you’ll need to upgrade.
The affected boxes are:
Digibox
4F01 to 4F08 (Amstrad)
4E01 to 4E05 (Grundig)
9F01 to 9F08 and 9F0A (Pace)
0F01 to 0F05 (Panasonic)
4E06 to 4E08 (Thomson)
Sky+
4F2001 to 4F2006 (Amstrad)
4F2101 to 4F2118 and 9F2101 to 9F2137 (Amstrad or Pace)
9F2001 to 9F2024, PVR2, 9F2201 to 9F2235, 9F2301 to 9F2339 (Pace)
4E2101 to 4E2141 (Thomson)
Sky says that users can upgrade to a Sky Q box at no extra cost via a simple phone call to 0333 759 5121. It’s also possible to upgrade online if you don’t fancy waiting for the call to be connected.
Once it’s been confirmed you need. new device, Sky says it will then be installed by one of its engineers on a date that suits you.
