On November 5, DTT launches UHD and a new channel: you will have to retune your TV

The official information comes from the Ministry for Digital Transformation and the Public Function, which has set November 5 as the key date to start the transmission of DTT in ultra-high definition (UHD) in Spain. This change is regulated within the National Technical Plan for Digital Terrestrial Television, approved in March 2025, and involves the adoption of the DVB-T2 technical system, the standard already used by most European countries.

The reason for this technological advance is to offer much higher image and sound quality (UHD), closer to what satellite or internet services provide. Additionally, the new system allows a more efficient use of the radio spectrum, leaving space for the incorporation of a new state DTT channel, which will begin broadcasting at the same time.

What does the new DVB-T2 technology imply for the user?

What exactly changes from November 5 onward?

On November 5, the redistribution of nationwide television channels into different digital blocks will begin, and simultaneously UHD transmission will activate for the main channels. This means users will need to retune their TVs or decoders starting at 8 a.m. to be able to watch the channels in their new location and quality.

Until then, most channels will continue broadcasting in high definition (HD), but some such as Clan (RTVE), DKISS (RadioBlanca), A3Series (A3Media), BeMad, and Boing (Mediaset) may change position or stop being visible if retuning is not done.

Which users need to be more concerned?

This change particularly affects viewers with older TVs or decoders that do not support DVB-T2 or UHD. Although most TVs sold in Spain since March 2025 are already adapted, those with old equipment will continue seeing channels in HD but will not be able to access the new quality or the new channel.

Regional and local channels will not yet broadcast in UHD, but their adaptation is planned for a second phase when the installed base of devices grows.

How to prepare your TV for the new UHD DTT?

How to retune and check compatibility?

To enjoy the new UHD DTT, it is essential to retune the TV or decoder from November 5 onward. This process updates the channel list to reflect the changes in distribution and the new transmission.

• Access the Settings menu of your TV.
• Look for the option Auto-tuning or Channel scan.
• Run the retuning and wait for the process to finish.
• Check that the new channel appears and that usual channels play without problems.

To verify UHD compatibility, check the TV box or manual indicating support for DVB-T2 and Ultra High Definition. If not, a compatible decoder will be needed.

How to know if you are already affected by this change?

• Clan, DKISS, A3Series, BeMad, and Boing channels are not visible or have recently changed position.
• Main channels show a UHD transmission option in the TV menu.
• The TV or decoder does not allow complete retuning or shows errors.
• You already have a device purchased after March 2025, which should be compatible.

What advantages and challenges does the new UHD DTT entail?

Why is this change especially interesting?

Switching to UHD DTT means obtaining image and sound quality that allows traditional television to compete with pay platforms and online services that already offer UHD. This ensures that public and private TV maintains its relevance and quality for users.

What challenges does it imply for citizens and operators?

The main difficulty is that citizens must adapt equipment and perform retuning, which may cause confusion or technical difficulties for some users. Prior information is also key: affected channels must inform viewers from September 8 to avoid surprises.

Moreover, the full UHD implementation on regional and local channels will depend on the installed base evolution over time.

To not miss any broadcast, it is necessary to pay attention to official communications and perform retuning at the appropriate time.

The changes in November mark a before and after for DTT in Spain, opening the door to clearer, more modern television for all.

It is also advisable to keep the TV updated, enable two-step authentication on connected platforms, and review application permissions that may access the television to protect privacy.

If you have problems with retuning or detect channels that are not visible, seek professional help to avoid losing access to programming.

The reality is that these changes are a necessary step to maintain the quality and competitiveness of DTT, and the best way to face them is with information and preparation.