ITV is continuing its transition to high definition broadcasting, with a new HD channel set to launch on satellite platforms as part of a wider upgrade across its network. The move forms part of ITV’s plan to ensure all of its main channels and regional services are available in HD, improving picture quality for viewers and modernising its broadcast infrastructure.

The latest development focuses on expanding HD availability across remaining regions and channels that have previously only been available in standard definition (SD). In particular, ITV is preparing to complete its rollout of regional ITV1 HD services, ensuring that all parts of the UK can access their local programming in high definition via satellite.

📡 Completing the Move to HD

For several years, most ITV regions have already been available in HD. However, some areas — including the Channel Islands and parts of the UK such as Border Scotland — have continued to rely on SD broadcasts for their regional services.

That is now changing. ITV has confirmed that these remaining regions will be upgraded to HD, meaning that for the first time, every ITV1 regional service will be available in HD on satellite platforms like Sky and Freesat.

As part of this rollout, new HD feeds are being launched and tested before being added to the channel guides. Once live, viewers will typically find their regional ITV1 HD service automatically replacing the SD version on the usual channel numbers.

📺 Additional HD Channels Launching

Alongside regional upgrades, ITV is also expanding HD availability for its wider channel portfolio. One notable addition is the HD launch of ITVBe, which had previously only been available in SD via satellite.

This means that, for the first time, all major ITV channels — including ITV1, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4 and ITVBe — will be available in HD on satellite.

The introduction of these HD versions will coincide with the gradual closure of SD simulcasts, as ITV follows the wider industry trend of phasing out standard definition broadcasting.

⚠️ Impact on Older Equipment

While most viewers will see an improvement in picture quality, these changes may affect those using older equipment. SD-only Sky and Freesat boxes are not capable of receiving HD channels, meaning some viewers could lose access to regional programming or entire channels once the transition is complete.

From early 2024, viewers in certain regions with SD-only receivers may no longer be able to access their correct regional ITV services without upgrading to HD-compatible equipment.

This mirrors similar moves by other broadcasters, including the BBC, which has already begun shutting down its SD satellite channels.

ITV’s HD expansion is part of a broader shift across the TV industry. With the vast majority of households now equipped with HD-capable TVs and receivers, broadcasters are increasingly focusing on higher-quality formats while freeing up valuable satellite bandwidth.

By moving to HD-only broadcasting, ITV can deliver better picture quality, improve efficiency, and prepare for future developments such as UHD and streaming integration.

For viewers, the message is clear: HD is now the standard, and upgrading older equipment will soon become essential to continue watching all available channels.

Data spotted on the satellites shows that ITV Be HD has appeared, albeit with no video or audio yet, on Frequency 11068 V 23000 3/4 DVB-S2 8PSK on the Astra 2g satellite. So it appears that ITV will be trying to cram 7 HD channels onto its frequencies.

It is thought that ITV Be HD will be available on Sky HD and Freesat HD boxes before Christmas 2023.