What you need to know about Finland's HD transition for television broadcasts
Finland is undergoing a significant change in the quality of television broadcasts, transitioning to high-definition (HD) broadcasts in 2025. This means that traditional standard-definition (SD) broadcasts will cease, and all television broadcasts will thereafter be offered in high-definition quality. The change affects both terrestrial (antenna) and cable TV reception.
Timeline and impact on viewers
The transition will be implemented in phases:
When will SD broadcasts end?
- Yleisradio (Yle): SD broadcasts will end on March 31, 2025.
- Other Finnish TV channels: SD broadcasts will end on June 30, 2025.
After this, all television broadcasts will only be available in high-definition quality. Viewers must ensure that their receivers support HD broadcasts.
What should viewers do?
As the transition approaches, it is important to check the compatibility of your receiver and antenna system.
Is your receiver HD-capable?
- If your household already watches Yle, MTV3, or Nelonen's HD broadcasts, your receiver likely supports HD broadcasts.
- In unclear cases, check the device's technical specifications or ask the device seller.
Antenna system check
- Detached houses: If your household has a modern and functional UHF antenna, changes are usually not needed. If there are reception disturbances, you should contact an antenna contractor.
- Housing companies: Residents are advised to contact their property manager to ensure that the housing company's antenna system has been updated for HD broadcasts.
HD channel offering
Currently, Digita's terrestrial TV network offers several free-to-air HD channels:
- Yle TV1 HD
- Yle TV2 HD
- Yle Teema & Fem HD
- MTV3 HD
- Nelonen HD
In addition, several HD-quality pay-TV channels are available. With the transition, the HD channel offering will grow even further.
Channel numbering changes
In November 2024, the channel numbers for the terrestrial TV network changed:
- HD channels: Found first in the channel list at positions 1–20.
- SD channels: Moved to positions 21–39.
The purpose of the change is to make it easier to find HD channels and transition to the new broadcast standard.
Are you HD-compatible? Updating receivers
If your receiver does not support HD broadcasts, purchasing a new device is recommended.
How to ensure HD compatibility?
- DVB-T2 tuner: Check that your TV or set-top box has a DVB-T2 tuner, which enables reception of HD broadcasts. Most new TVs sold in Finland have this feature as standard.
- HybridTV services: By connecting your TV to the internet, you can utilize HybridTV services, which offer additional features such as interactive content and applications. This requires an HbbTV-standard compliant TV.
Antenna system check
A functioning antenna system is a prerequisite for a clear HD picture.
Small houses
- If the home has a modern and functional UHF antenna and there are no reception problems, changes are probably not needed.
- In case of disturbances, you should contact an antenna contractor.
Joint antenna properties
- Residents of housing companies should confirm the need for antenna system updates with the property manager or the housing company's board.
- A professional antenna installer can check the system's functionality and make necessary updates for receiving HD broadcasts.
Source: Digita.fi
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