BBC iPlayer Will Stop on Old Virgin Media Boxes From July: What You Need to Know
BBC iPlayer is ending support on some Virgin Media devices. See if you’re affected and what to do before the deadline.
Big Change Coming For Virgin Media And BBC iPlayer Users
Starting 23 July 2025 the BBC iPlayer app will no longer work on older Virgin Media TiVo boxes. Virgin Media has confirmed this change and advised affected users to upgrade their devices before that date.
Most users already use updated devices like TV V6 or TV 360, which will continue to support BBC iPlayer. This change only affects a small number of users still using TiVo models.
Free Upgrade Option for TiVo Users
Virgin Media has sent emails to users who have accessed BBC iPlayer on a TiVo box in the last six months. These customers are being offered a free upgrade to the Virgin TV 360 box.
A company spokesperson said:
“We informed all customers who use TiVo and recently accessed BBC iPlayer. They can upgrade to a new TV 360 box without paying anything extra.”
If you still have a TiVo box and want to keep using iPlayer, you should request your upgrade before 23 July 2025.
Virgin Media O2 to Continue 3G Network Shutdown in More Areas
Virgin Media O2 is also moving forward with its 3G network switch-off, which started in April 2025. The goal is to improve performance by focusing on 4G and 5G networks, which are faster and more efficient.
Areas Affected in July 2025:
- Norwich – July 16
- Telford – July 16
- Guildford – July 16
Area Affected in August 2025:
- Torquay – August 4
Virgin Media O2 plans to complete the 3G shutdown across the UK by the end of 2025, including areas where mobile providers like Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, and Sky Mobile use its network.
How the 3G Switch Off Affects Mobile Users
If your phone only supports 3G, you will still be able to make calls and send SMS messages. However, you will lose access to mobile data once the switch-off happens in your area.
To stay connected, you will need a 4G or 5G-compatible phone. Virgin Media O2 has published a list of devices that are not compatible with 4G or WiFi calling.
Why These Changes Matter and What to Do Next
These updates are part of a wider technology upgrade. BBC iPlayer and Virgin Media O2 are making these changes to improve the overall user experience. Affected customers are being offered free or simple upgrades to stay connected.
What you should do:
- If you still use a TiVo box, ask Virgin Media for your free upgrade.
- If you use a 3G-only phone, switch to a 4G or 5G device before your area’s shutdown date.
These small changes today can help avoid interruptions in your TV or mobile services later.
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