Freeview has announced significant update changes for UK viewers, including a new channel launch and several channel name changes. As of April 22, 2026, users need to retune their televisions to access the updated channel lineup and keep their TV Guide current.
Freeview Update Changes for 2026
The recent Freeview update introduces the following key changes:
- Channel name change: That’s TV 3 is rebranded to That’s 20th Century (channel 71).
- Channel name change: That’s TV 3 MCR is now That’s 20th Century MCR (channel 86).
- Channel name change: That’s Classics MCR changes to That’s Classics (channel 93).
- Channel launch: That’s Entertainment debuts on channel 75.
These updates are already in effect. Freeview emphasizes that channels will continually change as providers make decisions regarding their programming.
CITV Ceases Operations After 42 Years
This update follows ITV’s recent decision to shut down its children’s channel, CITV, effective April 10, 2026. CITV had been on air since its launch in 1980, featuring beloved programs such as:
- Art Attack
- My Parents Are Aliens
- Tots TV
- Fraggle Rock
Originally branded Watch IT, the channel transitioned through several name changes. It became Children’s ITV before settling on CITV. Although CITV continued to provide programming on ITV2, the CITV block officially ended on April 10, marking the conclusion of an era.
How to Retune Your TV
To ensure access to the new channels, viewers must retune their televisions. This process is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Press ‘Menu’ on your TV or box remote control.
- Select ‘Set-up’, ‘Installation’, ‘Update’, or a similar option.
- If prompted for a password, use the default codes: ‘1234’ or ‘0000’.
- Select ‘First-time installation’ (also known as ‘factory reset’ or ‘full retune’).
- Press ‘OK’ to delete existing channels when prompted, and the retuning process will start automatically.
- Save any new channels found during the retune.
If the automatic retune does not work, Freeview recommends performing a manual retune. For detailed guidance, viewers can explore Freeview’s retuning videos available on their official website.
Have these updates changed your TV viewing experience? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
