Freeview users across the United Kingdom who favour ITV through their HUMAX set-top boxes are in for dismay later this month, with two popular devices becoming blocked from using the ITV Hub to catch up on content.
The Humax FVP-5000T and FVP-4000T receivers have each been added to an ever-growing blocklist of TVs and accessories losing their hub privileges from September 29, with televisions from Samsung, Sharp and Panasonic also waving goodbye to access.
The news comes as a huge blow to consumers who get their fix through these TV receivers, and many will be forced to fork out on expensive upgrades to allow them to continue to watch the online ITV platform.
Read more: Major Freeview update as anyone who owns a TV urged to retune
The Express reports that the team at Cordbusters spotted the fact that the FVP-5000T still remains on sale - and new or recent buyers will be left disappointed when they see the ITV Hub completely disappear from their TVs. In a statement, Humax said: "Customers are currently being advised through email and their set-top boxes.
"If customers have any questions regarding their specific Humax device, our customer support team will be happy to help on 0344 318 8800."
Here's a full list of devices losing access to the ITV Hub in the near future:
- Avtex
- CVTE
- Hisense 2016
- Hisense 2018
- Humax 4000t
- Humax 5000t
- Panasonic TV 2015 C range models
- Panasonic TV 2016 D range models
- Panasonic TV 2018 F HD range models
- Sharp UMC 2017
- Sharp UMC 2018
- TCL 6586 (2018) 6 Series
- Freesat G2
- Samsung All TVs prior to 2015
In an update on its status page, Freeview said: "From the end of September ITV is making changes to the ITV Hub app. As a result, the ITV Hub app will no longer be available on some devices, including some Freeview Play devices.
"This is due to ITV working to deliver improvements and upgrade their app. The technology required to carry out these improvements is not supported by some devices."
Things are also set to worsen for Freeview users later this year, when ITV rolls out a massive update to its ITV Hub later this year. The online service is soon to be replaced by a new platform known as ITV X - which promises even more shows and boxsets, some of which made available before they even air on TV.
While the ITV Hub has around 4,000 hours of content, the new saga will boast in the region of 11,000 hours more.
The content hub will be free to watch with an ad-supported plan, but a paid ad-free option will also be available with BritBox bundled in.
Read next:
X-Factor stars to take ITV show to court over £1million 'bullying' and 'trauma' claim
- Alison Hammond faces PETA backlash for riding 'exhausted' camel on Dubai Holiday
- This Morning's Ruth Langsford's parting statement sparks outcry from viewers
- Kate Garraway halts Good Morning Britain to break alarming news
Gabby Logan speechless as medal ceremony chaos unfolds on BBC
