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Before you start
- Have a compatible TV or Freeview receiver and a connected aerial.
- For UK live viewing, check that you have the required TV Licence coverage.
A clear way through this guide.
We’ll show you one step at a time. When you’re ready, press Done — next step. You can go back or take a break whenever you like.
5 steps · Your own pace
Watch aerial channels with Freeview
Step 1 of 5: Check the viewing equipment
Look in the TV’s instructions for Freeview support. If using a separate receiver, connect it as its manual directs and choose the corresponding input on your television.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 2 of 5: Connect the aerial
Insert the aerial cable securely into the correct socket. For a shared building aerial or suspected reception problem, check with the building manager or an appropriate installer.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 3 of 5: Tune through the settings
Follow your TV or receiver’s initial channel scan. Select the correct region when requested. Available channels differ by location; repeated scanning does not fix a damaged aerial.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 4 of 5: Use the programme guide
Open Guide or EPG on the remote. Move through channels and programme times, then select something currently on. Practise returning to the channel list.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 5 of 5: Add catch-up only if wanted
Freeview Play features need supported equipment and internet access. Follow each player’s registration instructions. UK TV Licence rules also apply to BBC iPlayer, including on-demand programmes.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Take your time. Next marks this step done.
You’ve finished this guide.
Every step is complete. You can come back and practise again whenever you like.
Your small practice task.
Find the programme guide and choose a channel you recognise.
Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.
A common question.
Must I subscribe to receive ordinary Freeview channels?
Freeview itself does not require a paid subscription for aerial channels. You still need suitable equipment, reception and any required TV Licence.
Official help, if you need it.
These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.