The hotel I stayed in the Scottish Highlands had satellite TV, the only one I stayed at that didn’t have terrestrial TV.
There were probably several hundred TV channels, could see LCN and Channel name and Now info, but sadly most didn’t have a picture, mostly for being behind a paywall eg. TNT and SKY Sports.
But the interesting part was there were at least several versions of BBC1 available eg. BBC Wales, BBC Scotland, BBC Y&L (Yorkshire and Lincolnshire). Didn’t get the chance to view different local opt outs at the same time however though.
Sounds like they had generic set top boxes or a Sky box without a viewing card?
Freesat boxes would omit all the encrypted Sky and TNT channels.
As part of Sky and Freesat BBC1, BBC2 (only Wales and Northern Ireland in addition to “Network”), ITV and Channel 4 (for adverts) have multiple feeds on Astra2. Sky boxes map the right version according to the adress on your subscription. Freesat boxes require you to enter a UK postcode for the right versions.
Though the BBC makes other versions available further up the LCN. ITV and C4 ommit this as they don’t really want people watching the “wrong” version.
Sky NZ had its AGM during the week and covered the Satellite issues
The need to shift has been labeled “Project Migrate”
Optus have offered two options (satellites at 160 and 156)
Sky’s preference is to stay at 160 degrees east (same slot, smoother transition) - will have greater confidence about this option in January
The option to move to 156 degrees east is available now, Sky expects most customers should be able to switch without issue, the “Hello Satellite” tests have been about trying to identify customers who can’t see that orbital slot
Optus and Sky have a supply deal until 2031
Both options are being pursued until there is a significant level of certainty
Expect the shift to occur in May 2025
Forecasting a $10m (I assume NZD) increase in costs related - have agreed to confidential terms with Optus around some recovery of costs
