Only 80 00 terrestrial TV households need to update their TV for the HD era 

Published: 19.2.2025

According to a recent study commissioned by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom, only 80,000 antenna TV households lack an HD-compatible TV receiver.

The transition to HD-only broadcasts is fast approaching, as Yle will end basic, SD-format broadcasts on March 31, 2025, and other TV channels in Finland will follow suit on June 30, 2025. After that, free-to-view TV broadcasts will be available in high definition only. The change affects both terrestrial and cable TV reception.  

“The HD transition increases the number of high-definition channels on the terrestrial television network. As the number of smart TV devices increases, so does the number of connected devices. Connected devices enrich the TV experience for viewers with supplementary hybrid TV services,” says Tom Jungell, Senior Vice President, Broadcast, at Digita. 

“The terrestrial television network is a reliable way to distribute high-quality images to consumers free of charge. It gives everyone an equal opportunity to receive content and share experiences regardless of location. The terrestrial television network also plays a crucial role in Finland’s security of supply and operation in times of crisis,” Jungell continues. 

In terrestrial television households, consider the following: 

  • During the transition, make sure that your TV receiver is up-to-date, allowing you to receive HD broadcasting. You live in a terrestrial TV household and can already view channels with HD in the channel name in the program guide or channel list, the receiver is HD-capable. If you live in a block building and do not know if your TV is connected to the terrestrial TV network, contact your property manager. 
  • If you cannot see HD channels even after performing a channel search on the receiver and your antenna system is up to date, you will probably have to get a new, HD-capable TV. Make sure the receiver has a DVB-T2 tuner. Most new TVs sold in Finland have it. You can check model-specific information at testatutlaitteet.fi or with the retailer. 
  • If you live in a detached house and own a modern, working UHF antenna and have not had any problems with your TV reception, there is probably no need to replace the antenna. Remember, however, that antenna systems, just like other household systems, require maintenance. If you cannot see HD channels even after performing a channel search on the receiver and your antenna system is up to date, you will probably have to get a new, HD-capable TV. 
  • It is also a good idea to check that the TV is up to date at vacation homes and summer cabins. 
  • Digita’s consumer service Digita Info helps antenna TV viewers with questions related to TV reception. 

The HD transition will be implemented in collaboration with the TV industry and the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency. 

Learn more here.

Digita/Communications