On 9 January 2024, ITV completed another step in its transition away from standard definition (SD) broadcasting on satellite by closing the SD versions of several channels, including ITV3, ITV4 and ITVBe. The change mainly affects viewers using older SD-only satellite receivers on platforms such as Sky or Freesat.

From this date, the SD versions of ITV3 and ITV4 were removed from the satellite electronic programme guide (EPG). In their place, the HD versions of the channels now occupy the main channel numbers previously used by the SD broadcasts. This means viewers with HD-capable receivers will still be able to watch the channels as normal, but those using older equipment that cannot receive HD channels will no longer be able to access them.

The move is part of a wider shift across UK broadcasting as networks gradually phase out standard definition transmissions. By focusing on HD-only broadcasting, ITV and other broadcasters can free up valuable satellite capacity and provide improved picture quality for viewers. As HD televisions and receivers have become standard in most households, the number of viewers still relying on SD-only equipment has become very small.

Alongside the closure of ITV3 and ITV4 in SD, some ITV regional SD services on satellite were also reorganised or replaced. In several regions, SD regional variants were removed or replaced with alternative feeds while the HD versions remained unchanged.

For most viewers with modern Sky or Freesat receivers, the change happens automatically and requires no action. HD boxes simply tune to the HD versions of the channels at the same channel numbers. However, viewers still using older SD-only satellite receivers will need to upgrade their equipment to continue watching these channels.

Importantly, these changes only affect satellite viewers using SD-only hardware. There are no changes to ITV channels on Freeview or Virgin Media, and viewers with HD satellite receivers can continue watching ITV3 and ITV4 as normal.

The closure of ITV3 and ITV4 SD marks another stage in the UK television industry’s gradual move toward fully HD broadcasting on satellite platforms.