If you are still using an older standard definition Sky digibox, significant changes are on the horizon — and they could leave you without access to many of your usual channels. As the UK television industry continues its transition away from SD broadcasting, Sky is preparing to follow other broadcasters in modernising its satellite platform.

These changes come shortly after the BBC completed the shutdown of its SD channels in January 2024, a move that immediately impacted viewers using older SD-only equipment. Now, Sky is set to introduce its own updates, further accelerating the shift towards HD-only broadcasting.

One of the key changes involves the closure of certain SD channels that are already available in HD. In many cases, these HD versions are provided at no extra cost to subscribers using compatible equipment. As a result, Sky is expected to begin phasing out duplicate SD versions to free up valuable satellite capacity.

Alongside channel closures, Sky will also be making technical changes to how channels are transmitted. The platform is gradually moving from the older DVB-S transmission standard to the more efficient DVB-S2 format. This newer system allows more channels to be broadcast on the same frequency and supports higher quality HD services.

However, this technical upgrade comes with a downside for users of older equipment. SD-only Sky digiboxes are not compatible with DVB-S2 signals, meaning they will be unable to receive channels that move to the new format. Even if those channels continue to exist, they will effectively disappear from older boxes.

This does not necessarily mean that all SD channels will vanish overnight. Some may remain available for a period of time, particularly where HD versions are not yet standard. However, the overall direction is clear — SD broadcasting on satellite is being phased out.

For viewers, the impact will depend largely on the type of equipment being used. Those with Sky HD, Sky+HD, or Sky Q boxes are unlikely to notice any disruption, as these devices already support the newer transmission standards and HD channels.

On the other hand, users with older grey Sky digiboxes will see a gradual reduction in available channels, with some services disappearing entirely. Over time, this will make these older boxes increasingly limited in what they can receive.

Ultimately, the message is simple: if you are still relying on an SD-only Sky box, an upgrade will soon become essential. Whether switching to a newer Sky receiver or a Freesat HD alternative, upgrading will ensure continued access to UK TV channels as the industry moves fully into the HD era.

Sky HD , Sky+HD and Sky Q are unaffected and SD channels will continue to be available on these boxes.