Freeview was officially launched in Australia in March 2009 and currently consists of 15 TV channels - five high definition (HD) and ten standard definition (SD). IceTV's Electronic Program Guide (EPG) and unique Interactive features are available for all 15 channels and will be made available for any future channels.

From the viewer's perspective, Freeview will lead to the introduction of additional free-to-air TV channels such as '7TWO' & 'GO!' over time and will bring a greater range of programs and viewing options. These newly named 'Freeview' channels will be accessible via any device capable of receiving digital television, but a standard definition tuner will only receive standard definition channels whereas a high definition tuner can receive both standard definition and high definition channels.

Some Personal Video Recorders (PVR's or DVR's) available in the market today come with so called 'Freeview certification'. These devices have been modified and in most cases features that benefit the user have been removed to meet the requirements of Freeview and the interests of the TV Networks. Features commonly removed or restricted are greater fast forward speeds (60x or more) and the 'ad skip' button.

As an independant company, IceTV is free to support any device capable of receiving the digital free-to-air channels with its interactive EPG service. This means you can enjoy all TV shows that Freeview has to offer, but still enjoy all the great features of your PVR or DVR.

Devices that support IceTV and that come with a free trial are available from leading retailers across Australia. You can also purchase selected products via IceTV's Online Store

IceTV enhances the Freeview experience

With 15 channels and an extensive range of programs to choose from, IceTV's accessibility and flexibility make it the perfect viewing partner to Freeview. IceTV gives the viewer total control over what is watched and when, avoiding missed shows and providing you the unique benefit of being able to skip any unwanted content.

Our electronic program guide is an independently compiled TV guide that can be accessed from anywhere via the internet (web browser, mobile phone or iPhone) and on your TV screen, enabling you to comprehensively manage all your viewing wherever you are.

Skipping lets you bypass any unwanted content when watching a recording or time-shifted live TV.

Extra time can be added to recordings, so if a show runs late the crucial ending won't be missed.

Series recording allows you to record every episode of your favourite show automatically, even if it goes off air for 6 months and then comes back. You can even setup a Keyword recording based on your favourite actor's name.

Frequently asked questions

Does Freeview offer an EPG like IceTV does?

Yes they do, but with much less functionality than the IceTV service. Utilising the interactive features unique to IceTV, users are able to access a comprehensive suite of tools that allows them to specifically tailor their recordings. This means that IceTV users have the ability and flexibility to automatically record any programmes they desire.

Will Freeview programs run on time?

This is currently unknown but IceTV allows ‘padding’ in its recordings. Adding 20-30 minutes of additional recording at the end of each show generally ensures that the entire program is recorded, even if the TV station is running late.

Will Beyonwiz, Topfield and other IceTV compatible recorders be able to record Freeview channels?

Yes. Any device capable of receiving high definition digital television in Australia will be able to access all of the free-to-air (Freeview) channels. PVRs with standard definition tuners will only receive standard definition channels whereas a high definition tuners can receive both standard definition and high definition channels