Sky TV Announces Major Service Overhaul with Channel Closures and Rebrands
Sky TV has unveiled significant alterations to its broadcasting services, set to take effect in March. The changes include the permanent closure of three channels and six temporary rebrands, impacting viewers across the UK. This move follows recent channel removals and is part of a broader strategy to streamline offerings and adapt to evolving viewer preferences.
Permanent Channel Closures Confirmed
In a decisive step, Sky TV will permanently scrap three channels: That's 80s (Satellite 359), That's Oldies (Satellite 360), and That's Melody (Satellite 361). These channels will cease broadcasting at 23:59 on February 28, with their removal from the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) scheduled for Monday, March 2. This action underscores Sky's ongoing efforts to refine its channel lineup, potentially leaving some customers without access unless they upgrade their plans.
Temporary Rebrands and Name Changes
Alongside the closures, Sky TV is implementing six temporary rebrands to enhance thematic programming. On Friday, March 6, Sky Horror Hits (Satellite 302 – Sky Glass/Stream 302) will be renamed to AwardSeasonHD. The following day, Saturday, March 7, Sky Book Day (Satellite 303 – Sky Glass/Stream 303) will change to WomenInFilmHD, aligning with International Women's Day celebrations.
Additionally, Nick Jr. Too (Satellite 612 - Glass/Stream 208 Glass) will temporarily rebrand to Nick Jr. Peppa, while Nicktoons (Satellite 605 - Sky Glass/Stream 206) will switch to Nick Alvinnnn!!!. These adjustments bring the total number of channel changes to nine, reflecting Sky's dynamic approach to content curation.
Background and Customer Impact
This announcement comes after Sky recently discontinued Sky Showcase and Sky Max, which stopped broadcasting on Tuesday, February 24. Customers are advised to keep their Sky plans updated to avoid missing out on channels. The changes are part of a larger "switch off" strategy that may affect viewer access and require plan upgrades for continued service.
In related news, Sky has also revealed modifications to its broadband services. From April 1, the money-back aspect of the Speed Guarantee will be scrapped, and the Wall to Wall WiFi Guarantee will no longer apply. Sky and Now broadband customers will see a £3 monthly increase, regardless of their current payment, with lower-tier packages facing up to a 12.5% rise. One customer expressed frustration on the Sky forum, noting the changes could lead to contract termination without fees if guarantees are not met.
For further details or to share a story, contact niamh.kirk@reachplc.com. These developments highlight Sky's ongoing adjustments to its broadcasting and broadband offerings, aiming to balance innovation with customer expectations in a competitive market.
