Sky TV shutdown will block these popular channels this week – check your account

Sky is making some major changes to its platform this week and it could leave some users without their favourite channels. The update is due to ageing Standard Definition (SD) services being switched off to clear up space for improved High Definition (HD) content. Those with older Sky boxes – that can’t access HD – will find they can no longer tune into channels including Sky Sports, Sky Cinema and the MUTV channel this month.

Things will get even worse in June with Sky confirming that all SD channels will slowly be switched off.

“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.

“Without the upgrade, any subscriptions you have to these channels will be cancelled.”

To find out if your Sky box is affected simply head to channel 101 on your planner. If you see BBC One HD on the screen you are fine and won’t need to worry about losing channels.

If you can’t see this service you have an old device and will need to upgrade as soon as possible. Sky has also listed all of the affected set-top boxes as well – full details below.

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)

If you own or use one of the Sky boxes that are being blocked don’t panic as you can upgrade to an HD device, such as Sky Q, for free.

“Sky TV customers can upgrade to Sky Q at no extra cost. Upgrade online, or call 0333 759 5121 – we’d advise doing this as soon as possible to avoid long wait times.,” Sky explained.

The firm says that those ordering a new box will get it installed by one of Sky’s engineers on a date that suits them so it shouldn’t cause too much disruption.

Once the update is fitted, users will then be able to access all of the Sky channels in their Sky TV package as normal.