Telly fans furious as free satellite TV service stops popular record feature – and some channels have disappeared too
MILLIONS of TV viewers have had their ability to record shows revoked, unless they buy specific ‘recordable’ set-top boxes.
The move, alongside more channels disappearing, has left customers fuming.
Freesat, the UK’s subscription-free satellite TV platform, has removed the popular remote recording feature from its mobile apps on both iOS and Android devices.
The feature had been available on the Freesat mobile app for years.
Freesat stated that “a change to our internal systems,” meant the feature had to disappear for older boxes.
One disappointed viewer wrote on X: “We can no longer set programmes to record through our phones. Is this a permanent thing?
“You are meant to improve things not make them worse! I often record things from my phone.”
The change affects both older Humax Freesat recorders and newer 4K Freesat boxes.
In a statement, Freesat said: “As a result of this change, the Remote Record feature on Freesat Mobile Apps on iOS and Android will no longer function.
“You can continue to enjoy recording your favourite shows on your new and refurbished Freesat Recordable 4K TV Boxes (500GB, 1TB and 2TB). There will be no disruption to your viewing as a result of this change.
“We understand that this may impact your experience with our product, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”
This week millions of Freesat boxes also lost two more channels.
Older Freesat boxes lost access to entertainment channel Blaze (channel 162) and shopping network Gems TV (channel 805) on Tuesday.
Freesat Recordable 4K TV Boxes
Freesat sells refurbished set-top boxes on its website.
Refurbished Freesat Recordable 4K TV Boxes can be found online for between £199.99 and £249.99 depending on storage size.
Boxes come with storage options of 500GB, 1TB or 2TB.
1TB gives you the option of storing roughly 250 movies.