New Freesat Recorder Launches as 4K Boxes Disappear

A major shift is underway in the Freesat market as the long-standing range of 4K recording boxes has now been discontinued, leaving a noticeable gap for viewers wanting a modern satellite recorder. For several years, these devices — originally launched in 2020 — were the only real Freesat PVR option available, but stock has recently disappeared from retailers, confirming the end of that generation.

Stepping in to replace them is a brand new recorder from Manhattan TV — the S4-R Freesat 4K TV Recorder. This new device will bring updated hardware, modern streaming integration, and familiar recording features such as multi-channel recording and pause/rewind live TV. Its launch marks a new phase for Freesat, combining traditional satellite recording with on-demand apps, and reassuring users that recording via satellite TV is not disappearing — but evolving with newer technology.

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New Fire TV Stick HD Brings Speed but Less Freedom as Sideloading goes

 The new Amazon Fire TV Stick HD (2026) will bring noticeable improvements in speed, design, and usability, making it a more responsive and compact streaming device than previous versions. With around a 30% performance boost, faster app loading, Wi-Fi 6 support, and a slimmer, more portable design, it will appeal to users who simply want a smoother, plug-and-play streaming experience.

However, this increased performance will come at the cost of flexibility. The new device will run Amazon’s Vega OS instead of the older Android-based system, meaning users will likely lose the ability to sideload apps or install software outside the official app ecosystem. This shift reflects a wider move by Amazon to lock down the platform — improving security and control, but reducing the freedom that made earlier Fire TV devices so popular, particularly among more advanced users.

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Kindle Models Losing Support in 2026 - Is Yours Kindle Affected?

 Several older Kindle devices are set to lose support in 2026, meaning they will no longer receive software updates or full access to key features. While basic reading functions should continue to work, affected models may lose access to the Kindle Store, syncing, and cloud-based services over time. This change is part of a wider shift by Amazon to focus on newer devices that support updated software, security standards, and improved performance.

If you’re using an older Kindle, it’s worth checking whether your model is on the affected list. Devices released more than a decade ago are the most likely to be impacted, particularly early e-ink models. Users may still be able to sideload books manually, but for full functionality — including wireless downloads and syncing — upgrading to a newer Kindle will eventually become necessary.

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Iconic CITV Ends as Kids TV Moves Fully to ITVX

 ITV has completed the closure of its long-running children’s brand CITV, fully moving its kids’ content to the ITVX streaming platform. After originally shutting the dedicated CITV channel in 2023, ITV kept a reduced children’s block on ITV2, but this final broadcast slot is set to end in April 2026—bringing the CITV name to a close after more than 40 years.

The shift reflects changing viewing habits, with younger audiences increasingly watching content on demand rather than through traditional TV schedules. ITVX Kids now offers a larger, on-demand library, but without the fixed programming and shared viewing experience of linear television.

Overall, the move marks the end of an era for children’s TV in the UK, as broadcasters continue transitioning դեպի streaming-first platforms.

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Why IPTV Stops Working in Spain (And Fixes)

 

IPTV services in Spain may stop working for a number of reasons, particularly as authorities and internet providers increase efforts to block illegal streaming platforms. Many Spanish ISPs have begun restricting access to certain IPTV servers, leading to buffering, missing channels or complete service outages.

In some cases, the issue may be technical rather than legal, such as app errors, outdated software, or server downtime on the provider’s side. Restarting devices, updating apps, or reinstalling IPTV software can often resolve basic problems.

Network-related fixes, such as changing DNS settings or using alternative connections, may also help restore access. However, ongoing crackdowns mean some services may remain unreliable or permanently blocked in Spain. 

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Sky Targets IPTV Users in Irish Crackdown

 

Sky is intensifying its crackdown on illegal IPTV use in Ireland, with a landmark court ruling allowing access to the personal details of more than 300 suspected users of “dodgy box” streaming services. The High Court ordered Revolut to hand over names, addresses and financial data linked to a pirate IPTV operation.

This move is significant as it opens the door for legal action not only against providers, but also against some end users—something rarely seen before in Ireland.

Sky has indicated it will pursue resellers and selected users, likely starting with warning letters and potential legal proceedings. The case marks a major escalation in anti-piracy enforcement and could set a precedent for targeting IPTV users directly in future crackdowns.

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Can You Watch Freely Abroad Without a VPN?

 

Using the Freely Netgem Pleio abroad without a VPN is generally not possible due to strict geo-blocking by UK broadcasters. Services like BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4 check your IP address and will block access if you are outside the UK, meaning live TV and catch-up content won’t work as expected.

Tests using alternatives like Smart DNS show mixed results, with many services still detecting non-UK locations and restricting playback.

To reliably access Freely overseas, a UK-based connection—typically via a VPN router with a residential IP—is usually required.

Overall, Freely is designed for UK use, and without a proper workaround, it offers limited or no functionality abroad.

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Freesat users have seen the disappearance of popular 4K recording boxes

 Freesat users have seen the disappearance of popular 4K recording boxes, with models made by Arris/CommScope now discontinued and largely unavailable to buy. This led to concerns that the Freesat platform might be coming to an end. However, a new device from Manhattan TV is set to change that.

The upcoming Manhattan S4-R recorder, expected in 2026, will bring modern features such as 4K support, multi-channel recording, and integrated on-demand apps like BBC iPlayer and ITVX.

Its release suggests that Freesat is still very much active, with ongoing demand for subscription-free satellite TV—particularly in areas with limited broadband or for viewers who prefer traditional recording functionality. 

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BBC iPlayer Could Add ITV and Channel 4 Shows

 

The BBC has proposed a major change to its BBC iPlayer as part of its next Royal Charter plans, suggesting it could host programmes from other UK broadcasters such as ITV and Channel 4. The idea is to create a single, unified streaming platform where viewers can access content from multiple public service broadcasters in one place.

The proposal aims to help UK broadcasters compete with global streaming giants like Netflix by combining resources and audiences.

BBC content would remain ad-free, while partner content could still include advertising or subscriptions depending on the broadcaster’s model.

Although the plan could simplify viewing, it remains a proposal and would require approval and cooperation from other broadcasters before becoming reality. 

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Authorities in Italy are stepping up their crackdown on illegal IPTV use, with football league Serie A now demanding €1,000 in damages from individuals caught streaming matches illegally. These payments are in addition to existing government fines, which can range from around €150 to €5,000 depending on the offence.

The action follows a major investigation that identified thousands of users through subscription and payment records linked to a dismantled IPTV network.

Letters have been sent to suspected users requesting compensation, with some already paying the €1,000 settlement. Authorities say this is just the beginning, signalling a tougher approach that targets not only providers but also end users of illegal streaming services. 

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 BBC Player is now available on Movistar Plus+ in Spain, giving subscribers access to a wide range of British content on demand. The service includes hundreds of hours of programming from BBC Studios, featuring popular series, documentaries, and entertainment shows, all curated for Spanish audiences and available in Spanish.

Rather than a traditional TV channel, BBC Player is integrated into the platform as an on-demand section, accessible عبر compatible devices and UHD set-top boxes.

The launch also strengthens the partnership between Movistar Plus+ and BBC Studios, alongside additional channels such as BBC Earth and BBC Lifestyle.

Overall, the addition of BBC Player expands the platform’s international content offering, bringing more UK programming to viewers in Spain.

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 Channel 5 has removed its standard definition (SD) broadcast from UK satellite platforms including Sky and Freesat, marking another step towards an HD-only future. The SD version was switched off in early March 2026, with viewers now required to watch via the HD channel instead.

This change follows similar moves by the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, all of which have already phased out SD channels on satellite to improve picture quality and free up bandwidth.

Most viewers will not be affected, as modern receivers support HD. However, those using older SD-only satellite boxes will lose access to Channel 5 unless they upgrade their equipment. Overall, the switch reflects the wider transition to high-definition broadcasting across UK TV platforms. 

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That’s TV Closes Music Channels on Sky & Freeview

That’s TV has closed several of its dedicated music channels across Sky, Freesat and Freeview, including That’s 80s, That’s Oldies and That’s Melody. The channels officially ceased broadcasting at the end of February 2026, with on-screen messages confirming the shutdown and directing viewers to other That’s TV services.

The move reflects the ongoing decline of traditional linear music TV, as more viewers switch to streaming platforms and online video services.

While the standalone music channels have closed, music content will continue to be shown within other That’s TV channels. The closures follow a wider trend of music channel shutdowns in recent years, leaving fewer options available on traditional broadcast TV.

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Casting vs Mirroring: What’s the Difference?

 Casting and screen mirroring are two common ways to display content from your phone, tablet or computer onto a TV, but they work quite differently. Casting sends specific content—such as a video or music—from your device to the TV, which then streams it directly from the internet. This means you can continue using your device for other tasks while playback continues.

Screen mirroring, on the other hand, duplicates your entire device screen in real time, showing everything including apps, menus and notifications

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March 2025 Solar Outage to Disrupt Satellite TV

 Satellite TV viewers across Spain and Europe may experience brief signal loss during March 2025 due to a natural phenomenon known as a “solar outage.” This occurs when the sun aligns directly behind geostationary satellites, overwhelming their signals with solar radiation.

The disruption typically happens around late morning (approximately 10:30–11:30 AM) and can last up to 20 minutes per day over several days.

This is a normal and predictable event that happens twice a year around the spring and autumn equinoxes, affecting satellite TV, radio and internet services.

There is no permanent impact on equipment, and signals return automatically once the sun moves out of alignment. While unavoidable, the outages are short-lived and should not be a cause for concern.

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British Expats Arrested in Costa Blanca IPTV Raid

 Two British expats have been arrested in Spain’s Costa Blanca after police uncovered an illegal IPTV operation being run from a home in Alicante. The suspects, aged around 50 and 70, are accused of providing unauthorised access to premium television channels across Europe via a paid subscription service.

The platform reportedly had around 330 customers and generated an estimated €190,000 in revenue. Users were given login details to stream content on smart TVs, set-top boxes and mobile devices.

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Does Freely Work Abroad on Netgem Pleio?

 The Freely TV platform, available on devices like the Netgem Pleio, is designed primarily for use within the UK and relies on an internet connection to stream channels from broadcasters such as the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5. However, using Freely outside the UK is not straightforward. Due to licensing restrictions, these services are geo-blocked, meaning they will not normally work when accessed from abroad.

While some users attempt workarounds such as VPNs or Smart DNS services, success can vary, as many broadcasters actively block known VPN connections. In most cases, a reliable solution requires a UK-based internet connection or residential IP setup. Overall, Freely is intended as a UK-only service, and accessing it overseas remains limited and technically challenging.

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Spain Orders VPNs to Block Pirate Streams

 Spain has taken a significant new step in its fight against online piracy, with a court ordering major VPN providers to block access to illegal football streaming sites. The ruling, driven by LaLiga and its broadcast partner Telefónica, specifically targets services such as NordVPN and Proton VPN.

The court determined that VPN companies act as “technological intermediaries,” meaning they can be required to help prevent copyright infringement on their networks. As a result, these providers must now block access to specific IP addresses linked to pirate streams, making them inaccessible from within Spain.

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