In February 2025, the UKTV Group of channels, those “U” channels, changed frequency / Transmission standards, and moved from DVBS to DVBS2.

This follows in the footsteps of the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Sky, as part of the industry wide process to move channels on to the more efficient DVBS2 broadcast standard.

In recent days, these channels have now changed its compression format, moving from MPEG2 to MPEG4.

This affected the following channels :

U&Gold UK (pay)
U&Alibi (pay)
U&Eden
U&Dave
U&Yesterday
U&W
U&Drama UK

and their associated “+1” and Ireland versions.

Sky HD, SkyQ and Freesat HD users should not need to do anything, as their boxes will automatically update to the new frequencies. However, if you are using a SkyHD, Sky+HD, SkyQ or Freesat HD set top box and you have lost reception of these UKTV channels, then you may need to reboot your satellite receiver.

Users of other types of satellite receivers, will need to manually scan for the channels on their new compression format. (if you do not do this you may head the audio, but may not see the channel!)

Why Are These Changes Happening?

The shift is part of a larger industry-wide move in the UK and Ireland to upgrade satellite broadcasting services to a more bandwidth-efficient standard.

DVB-S2 was originally introduced to accommodate HD channels, which require more bandwidth. However, many broadcasters have since adopted DVB-S2 for both SD and HD channels, helping them cut satellite bandwidth costs for distribution. The growing adoption of DVB-S2, which gained significant momentum last year, has made older first-generation satellite receivers outdated.

A few broadcasters, including Paramount (Channel 5), Narrative Entertainment (GREAT! movies, POP!), That’s Dance, NOW 90s, and NOW 00s, have yet to transition to DVB-S2.

About UKTV Group

UKTV Group is a British multi-channel broadcaster owned by BBC Studios. Founded in 1992, it operates several popular television channels, such as Dave, Drama, Gold, W, Alibi, Eden, and Yesterday. The channels feature a blend of original content, classic British television, and acquired programs across various genres, including comedy, drama, entertainment, and factual documentaries.

UKTV is renowned for its investment in original productions, with successful shows like Taskmaster, Big Zuu’s Big Eats, and Bangers and Cash. The network reaches millions of viewers through platforms like Freeview, Sky, Virgin Media, and streaming services, including its on-demand platform, UKTV Play.

As a subsidiary of BBC Studios, UKTV strikes a balance between commercially driven content and high-quality British programming. Its innovative broadcasting strategies and digital expansion have cemented its position as a key player in the UK television industry, constantly evolving to meet audience needs.