The organisation responsible for allocating channel numbers to broadcasters on Freeview says viewers will need to retune their TVs and set top boxes in September.
DMOL says it is renumbering channels to ensure any new channels are in the most logical and viewer-friendly parts of the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG).
A re-arrangement of the UK’s spectrum is expected to free up space for further channels, including new HD channels, to launch on Freeview. The new channels would also be available to BT Vision and YouView viewers.
Under plans announced today, DMOL will move all HD channels to the block of numbers 101-120 and increase the number of channel numbers for general entertainment channels to 100.
Broadcasters, DMOL and set top box makers will run a publicity campaign ahead of the changes to remind viewers to re-tune to ensure they can continue watching their favourite channels.