Freeview+ BBC

Your Freeview HD TV
just got smarter

Freeview HD with Smart TV

Welcome to Smart TV – your access to a world of entertainment.  Catch up on your favourite TV with BBC iPlayer, watch videos and TV shows on YouTube or even keep up to date on Facebook, all for free.  Some Smart products also offer instant access to music and paid for movie services such as LOVEFiLM. 

Most Freeview HD TVs are now Smart TVs so in addition to 4 great HD channels and up to 50 standard channels* you can now have lots more entertainment at your fingertips.  If you already have an HDTV you can add these Smart services with selected Freeview+ HD recorders. (see products available)  

*All channels subject to coverage – check coverage at your address 

  • BBC iPlayer
  • LOVEFILM
  • YouTube

What do I need?

To access Smart TV you need to connect your Freeview HD TV or recorder to the internet (Smart TV is not available with standard definition Freeview products).

  1. Have you got a:

    • Freeview HD TV?

      Freeview HD TV

    • Freeview+ HD recorder?

      Freeview+ HD
  2. Have you got a home broadband connection? (2 Mbps or more required)
  3. If the answer is yes to both these questions, simply connect your Freeview TV or recorder to the internet to get TV on demand now. Check your product manual for more information on this and see the overview below.

Click here for a list of current Freeview HD products that feature Smart TV such as BBC iPlayer

Smart TV services vary depending on the product

How do I get connected?

You have three options to connect your Freeview HD TV or recorder.

  • Ehernet Cable

    Ethernet Cable (recommended)

    The most reliable way to connect is with an Ethernet cable. These are best suited if your broadband router is situated near to your Freeview HD TV or recorder.

  • Homeplugs Adaptors

    Homeplugs Adaptors

    These enable you to safely and conveniently connect by sending the broadband signal round your house using your existing in-house wiring.

  • Wi-Fi dongle

    Wi-fi dongle (only some products)

    By using a dongle you can connect directly to your home wireless network without cables or wires.

For more help on how to connect your Freeview HD TV or box, ask your retailer for more information.

FAQs

What is BBC iPlayer on Freeview HD? Read answer

You can now get BBC iPlayer on selected Freeview HD boxs, TVs and Freeview+ HD recorders which means that you can now easily catch up on some of last week’s BBC programmes on your TV!
All you need to do is connect your Freeview receiver, TV or Freeview+ HD recorder to the internet to access BBC iPlayer.

Can I connect my Freeview+ HD recorder, Freeview HD box or TV to my home broadband using a wireless dongle? Read answer

Only certain manufacturers have made wireless dongles available at this stage eg Samsung so you need to check with your retailer before you buy.  (Note that performance of wireless networks is dependent on other services using this facility in or near the home – a wired connection will usually offer better performance)

What does it cost to watch BBC iPlayer on Freeview HD? Read answer

There is no charge from Freeview or the BBC to watch BBC iPlayer. However as BBC iPlayer on Freeview HD is accessed via your home broadband, you are responsible for paying any expenses in connection with your use of the service, including any broadband charges. Your broadband provider may set a download limit depending on your broadband package – if you go over this they may charge extra or restrict your broadband speeds.

Can I watch BBC iPlayer whilst recording another programme on my Freeview+ HD recorder? Read answer

Yes up to two other channels can be recorded whilst you are watching BBC iPlayer on Freeview HD .

What are Homeplug adapters and where can I buy one? Read answer

Homeplug adapters send broadband around your home using the electrical wiring. They plug straight into your power sockets. You need two Homeplug adapters (they are usually sold in pairs) with a minimum transfer speed of 54Mbps. You also need available plug sockets in the wall near both your Freeview HD recorder or TV and your broadband router. You can buy Homeplug adapters at your local PC or electrical retailer, or you can buy them online.

More FAQs