ITV Digital successor to be called Freeview

The BBC and BSkyB successor to the defunct ITV Digital will be called Freeview, it was announced today.

It will launch in the autumn and will be available to both former ITV Digital customers and new subscribers.

Freeview will carry all the terrestrial channels and a host of other services including Sky News, BBC Choice, BBC Four and ITV2.

There will also be two new entertainment channels and one new music channel, details of which have yet to be confirmed.

Andy Duncan, BBC Director of Marketing and Communications, said: "Freeview will be a fresh start for many consumers.

The BBC-BSkyB bid, in conjunction with satellite broadcaster and transmitter company Crown Castle, beat a link-up of ITV and Channel 4 to win the three digital terrestrial licences left vacant after the ITV Digital collapse.

The Independent Television Commission awarded the licences last month.

"We believe we have a compelling range of channels with the broadest possible appeal to those seeking to extend their viewing choice," said Crown Castle president and managing director Peter Abery.

"Freeview offers something new for viewers who aren’t attracted by pay television but would like more quality TV channels."

Some ITV Digital customers reported reception problems but digital terrestrial signals are being improved in time for the Freeview launch.

This should also mean that more homes will be able to receive the signals without needing an aerial upgrade.