A lovely weekend for sun seekers may not be as enjoyable for TV enthusiasts in the UK due to signal disruptions caused by high-pressure conditions. The atmospheric phenomenon, while bringing beautiful weather, can result in poor TV reception.
According to the BBC, high pressure can create two main issues for TV signals. It can weaken the local transmitter signal by lifting it higher into the sky, and it can also cause interference from distant transmitters.
The Freeview service has confirmed ongoing signal disruptions from late last week until Monday, May 19, due to the prevailing high-pressure system. Freeview users have been advised not to retune their TVs, as this will not resolve the issue and may cause further problems.
For those experiencing signal problems, there are alternative options available. Users with smart TVs equipped with Freeview Play can switch to internet-based services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX instead of relying on the aerial signal. Another option is Freely, a service by the same team behind Freeview and Freesat, which delivers content through broadband, unaffected by weather conditions.
Freely offers over 40 channels with both live and on-demand content, allowing viewers to pause live TV, access a TV guide, and receive recommendations for new shows. Although the platform initially had limited features and compatibility, recent updates have enhanced the user experience, including a backwards TV guide feature and easier access to saved content.
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