Check your Freeview TV now to get Sky and Virgin channel upgrade for free - The Mirror

Freeview users can now access a free upgrade that brings this service up to speed with Sky and Virgin Media.

All homes using Freeview have just received a major boost to their daily fix of entertainment. It's just been confirmed that a new channel has launched this week that was previously only accessible via premium TV services such as Sky and Virgin Media. The free upgrade means Freeview fans can now watch TLC - a channel that features reality shows, comedy and movies.

For those unaware, TLC is best known for hit reality shows like Dr Pimple Popper and Say Yes To The Dress. However, the channel is also expanding, adding a wider selection of programmes including sitcoms and blockbuster films.

Once the update rolls out, Freeview users will gain access to popular shows such as The Big Bang Theory, Mock the Week and Young Sheldon. That's not all as movie addicts can also look forward to blockbuster titles including Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Freeview says that TLC is available right now on channel 12 although some homes might need to perform a retune to access it.

"On 13th January 2026 some broadcasters are making changes to their channels," Freeview explained.

"You will need to retune to update your TV and keep your channels and TV Guide up to date."

Find out how to update your TV here

Along with TLC, the update will also trigger a small channel reshuffle. Quest will move from Ch12 to Ch17 to make room for TLC and Really moves from Ch17 to Ch44.

Not all the news is positive, however. Freeview has confirmed that HGTV will be closing, with programmes such as My Lottery Dream Home, Celebrity IOU and Building Alaska being removed from the platform. Other things shutting down include HGTV, God TV and India Today.

HERE ARE THE FULL LIST OF CHANGES

NEW CHANNELS

TLC - Ch12

TLC+1 - Ch99

CHANNEL MOVES

Quest - Ch17

Really - Ch44

CHANNEL CLOSE

HGTV

God TV

India Today