Channel 5 HD Testing on Freeview

Channel 5 HD has started testing on Freeview ahead of an imminent launch, which sees the service coming from behind the paywall and available to all HD viewers for the first time.

Test transmissions started earlier yesterday, with the channel occupying capacity on the national BBC-owned Freeview HD multiplex (PSB3), which already carries the other main four PSB channels in HD to around 98.5% of the UK.

An official launch date has not yet been announced, though the move, when complete, will enable Freeview HD households to watch the channel. This will also includes viewers with YouView.
Channel 5 HD is expected to take over channel 105, which was left vacant by BBC Three HD at the end of March.

The channel may not be visible on most DVB-T2 TVs and receivers, look for service ID 17728.