What is the BT YouView Box?

August 23rd, 2024
What is the BT YouView Box?

Content in this article

The BT YouView Box changes how you watch TV. It brings together live TV, catch-up options, and on-demand shows all in one easy-to-use device. This box is the main part of BT TV. It mixes regular TV with new streaming features effortlessly.

Understanding the BT YouView Box

What Does the BT YouView Box Offer?

The BT YouView Box provides access to:

  • You get more than 70 Freeview channels, with 15 in HD.
  • Enjoy popular streaming apps like BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and All 4.
  • There are BT TV packages that offer premium channels and Ultra HD content.
  • Sports fans can enjoy BT Sport and TNT Sports.
  • Use BT Player for on-demand movies and TV shows.

How Does the BT YouView Box Enhance TV Viewing?

This new box changes how you watch things by:

  • Combine live TV and on-demand content in one easy-to-use interface.
  • Provide a simple TV guide that lets you scroll back 7 days.
  • Allow pause, rewind, and record features for live TV.
  • Give access to Ultra HD content for great picture quality.

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Setting Up the BT YouView Box

What Are the Steps to Set Up the BT YouView Box?

  • Connect the YouView box to your TV with an HDMI cable.
  • Plug in the power cable and aerial lead.
  • Turn on your TV and choose the right HDMI input.
  • Follow the instructions on the screen to finish the setup.
  • Sign in to your BT account or make a new one.

How to Connect the BT YouView Box to Wi-Fi?

  • Press the Home button on your remote.
  • Go to Settings, then Network, and select Internet connection.
  • Choose 'Wireless' and pick your Wi-Fi network.
  • Type your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard.
  • Wait for the internet connection to be done.

For a better and more stable connection, think about using an Ethernet cable. This works best if your router is close.

Setting Up the BT YouView Box

BT YouView Box Features

What Key Features Does the BT YouView Box Have?

  • Pause and rewind live TV for up to 2 hours.
  • Record 300 hours of SD content or 125 hours of HD content.
  • Use Series Link to record entire series automatically.
  • Enjoy 7-day catch-up TV straight from the program guide.
  • Get Ultra HD support for compatible TVs and content.
  • Experience immersive audio with Dolby Atmos support.

How Does the BT YouView Box Improve Your Viewing Experience?

The BT YouView Box elevates your TV viewing by:

  • It gives you a smooth interface with live TV and streaming content.
  • It allows you to search smartly across all content.
  • It provides personalised recommendations based on what you watch.
  • It supports picture-in-picture functionality for viewers who like to multitask.

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Apps Available on the BT YouView Box

Is Netflix Available on the BT YouView Box?

Yes, Netflix works well with the BT YouView Box. You can:

  • You can get Netflix right from the main menu.
  • Look for Netflix shows together with live TV in the search results.
  • You can sign up for Netflix through BT or link your current account.

Can You Watch Amazon Prime Video on the BT YouView Box?

Amazon Prime Video is available on the BT YouView Box. Users can:

  • Watch Prime Video shows in up to 4K Ultra HD quality.
  • Enjoy Prime Video originals and special content.
  • Use your Amazon Prime account or sign up with BT.

How to Access Disney Plus on the BT YouView Box?

Disney Plus is easy to find on the BT YouView Box.

  • Go to the Apps section on your home screen.
  • Pick Disney Plus from the list of apps you have.
  • Log in using your Disney Plus account or sign up for a new subscription.
  • Enjoy content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.

What is the BT TV Store on the BT YouView Box?

The BT TV Store is a place online where you can:

  • Rent or buy new movies and TV shows.
  • Access your purchases on several devices.
  • Enjoy content in up to 4K Ultra HD quality.
  • Find special offers and deals for BT TV customers.

How to Use NOW TV on the BT YouView Box?

NOW TV is available on select BT TV packages:

  • Go to the NOW TV app on your BT YouView Box.
  • Sign in to your NOW TV account or make a new one.
  • Pick a pass from Entertainment, Cinema, or Sports.
  • Watch content directly on your TV.

Apps Available on the BT YouView Box

Using the BT YouView Box Remote Control

What Are the Features of the BT YouView Box Remote?

The BT YouView Box remote offers:

  • Easy access to BT Player and the TV guide with one touch.
  • Special buttons for your favourite streaming services.
  • Easy-to-use playback controls for live TV and recordings.
  • A number pad that lets you go directly to channels.
  • Voice control features are available on newer models.

How to Use Voice Control on the BT YouView Box?

On compatible models:

  • Press and hold the microphone button on your remote.
  • Speak your command clearly, like "Show me comedy movies."
  • Release the button and wait for the results.
  • You can use voice commands to change channels, search for content, or control playback.

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Recording and Playback on the BT YouView Box

How to Record Shows on the BT YouView Box?

To record a show:

  • Go to the show in the TV guide.
  • Press the Record button on your remote.
  • Select whether you want to record just one episode or the whole series.
  • Make sure to confirm your choice.

You can set recordings from anywhere using the BT TV app on your phone.

What Playback Features Does the BT YouView Box Offer?

The BT YouView Box provides:

  • Pause and rewind live TV for up to 2 hours.
  • You can fast forward and rewind through your recordings.
  • Pick up the playback from where you stopped.
  • Watch picture-in-picture for multitasking.
  • See thumbnail previews when fast-forwarding through shows.

Recording and Playback Features

Comparing the BT YouView Box with Competitors

How Does the BT YouView Box Compare to Sky Q?

While both provide great TV experiences, there are important differences between them:

  • The BT YouView Box needs broadband for several features, but Sky Q works with satellites.
  • Sky Q usually has more space for saving recordings.
  • The BT YouView Box works better with Freeview channels.
  • Sky Q provides a more advanced way to set up multiple rooms.

What Are the Differences Between the BT YouView Box and Virgin Media?

Comparing the two:

  • BT YouView Box works with your current aerial. virgin media needs cable installation.
  • Virgin Media usually gives faster broadband speeds together with TV.
  • BT YouView Box offers better integration with Freeview and catch-up services.
  • Virgin Media's TiVo interface is more customisable.

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Troubleshooting the BT YouView Box

How to Fix Common Issues with the BT YouView Box?

For common problems:

  • Slow performance: Restart your device and look at your internet connection.
  • Poor picture quality: Make sure all cables are connected well and check your TV settings.
  • Recording issues: Check the storage space left and the signal strength.

What to Do If Your BT YouView Box Isn't Working?

If your box isn't functioning:

  • Disconnect the power cable for 30 seconds, then reconnect it.
  • Check all connections, like HDMI and antenna.
  • Make sure your broadband is working well.
  • If the issues continue, reach out to BT customer support.

Troubleshooting the BT YouView Box

Final Thoughts on the BT YouView Box

Is the BT YouView Box a Good Investment?

The BT YouView Box is a great choice for people who want:

  • A mix of regular TV and new streaming services.
  • Get premium content without needing satellite installation.
  • A simple interface with great search functionality.
  • The chance to record your favourite shows and watch what you missed.

What Are the Pros and Cons of the BT YouView Box?

Pros:

  • You can easily watch live TV and on-demand content together.
  • The interface is easy to use, and you can navigate it easily.
  • Enjoy Ultra HD content with Dolby Atmos sound.
  • There is no need to install a satellite dish.

Cons:

  • It needs a stable internet connection for the best performance.
  • It has less storage capacity than some other options.
  • Some features may need extra subscriptions.

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How Does the BT YouView Box Compare to EE TV?

EE TV gives a different viewing experience, even though it has some things in common with others.

  • EE TV gives you a great multi-screen experience using the EE TV Box Mini.
  • BT YouView Box is more designed to work with BT's services.
  • EE TV lets you enjoy more choices for watching on mobile devices.
  • BT YouView Box usually has a larger selection of premium content options.

What is the EE TV Box Mini?

The EE TV Box Mini is a small streaming device that:

  • You can watch EE TV content on more screens.
  • It gives you a handy way to watch shows in different rooms.
  • You can use popular streaming apps and catch-up services.

How User-Friendly is the BT YouView Box Interface?

The BT YouView Box is built to be easy to use.

  • A simple menu that helps you find what you want quickly.
  • A clear TV guide that lets you catch up on shows easily.
  • Easy controls for recording and playing back content.
  • A simple search tool to find anything in your content.

User-Friendly is the BT YouView Box Interface

What Parental Controls Does the BT YouView Box Offer?

BT YouView Box has strong options for parental control.

  • PIN protection for content meant for a certain age.
  • A way to hide adult content from the guide.
  • The chance to set time limits for watching.
  • Personalised restrictions for different user profiles.

How Much Storage Does the BT YouView Box Hard Drive Offer?

The BT YouView Box has a built-in hard drive. You can use it to record shows and movies easily.

  • Usually provides 500GB of storage.
  • Can record as much as 300 hours of SD TV shows or 125 hours of HD TV shows.
  • Lets you record several channels at the same time, depending on the model.

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What is BT Ultra HD and How Does it Work with the YouView Box?

BT Ultra HD gives you clear and amazing 4K content right in your living room.

  • You need a compatible 4K TV and a BT Ultra HD subscription.
  • It provides four times more detail than standard HD.
  • It is available for some sports events, movies, and TV shows.
  • It uses the HDMI 2.0 output from the BT YouView Box to deliver 4K.

How Does the BT YouView Box Function as a Freeview HD Recorder?

As a Freeview HD recorder, the BT YouView Box gives you:

  • Get access to more than 70 Freeview channels. This includes 15 channels in HD.
  • You can pause and rewind live TV.
  • You have the option to schedule recordings of Freeview content.
  • Enjoy a 7-day catch-up feature directly from the TV guide for main channels.

BT YouView Box Function

What Makes the BT YouView Box Good Value for UK Viewers?

The BT YouView Box has many features that are a good value.

  • It brings together Freeview, catch-up, and premium content in one device.
  • You don't need separate subscriptions for different streaming services.
  • There are regular software updates to improve functionality and add new features.
  • You can upgrade to higher-tier packages if you want more content.

How Does Picture Quality Compare on the BT YouView Box?

The BT YouView Box is famous for having good picture quality.

  • Supports 4K Ultra HD resolution on TVs that can handle it.
  • Offers HDR for better contrast and colour.
  • Upscales lower resolution content to improve quality.
  • Ensures smooth playback with little buffering on a good connection.

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Can I Put the BT YouView Box in Standby Mode to Save Energy?

Yes, the BT YouView Box has a standby mode that saves energy.

  • It wakes up fast from standby so you can quickly access your content.
  • It uses very little power when you are not actively using it.
  • You can set it to go into standby by itself during off-hours.
  • It lets you receive updates and record shows even while it is in standby.

How Can I Upgrade My BT YouView Box?

Upgrading your BT YouView Box is straightforward:

  • Go to BT's website to find out about hardware upgrades.
  • Call BT customer service to talk about your upgrade choices.
  • Think about upgrading to a better TV package for extra features.
  • Make sure your broadband speed is good enough for advanced features.

Upgrade BT YouView Box

What Download Options Does the BT YouView Box Offer?

The BT YouView Box has several options for downloading.

  • It automatically downloads software updates to make performance better.
  • It lets you download content anytime for offline viewing (on some models).
  • It supports background downloading to reduce interruptions during viewing.

How Does AI Enhance the BT YouView Box Experience?

AI features on the BT YouView Box might not be widely advertised, but they include:

  • Get content suggestions that match what you usually watch.
  • Search smartly across all the content you can access.
  • Receive automatic recording tips for shows you might like.
  • Manage energy well to save power.

Compare TV Packages

Compare TV packages from the UK’s leading providers

Frequently Asked Questions About the BT YouView Box

Can I Use the BT YouView Box Without BT Broadband?

The BT YouView Box works best with BT Broadband, but you can use it with other internet providers too. Just keep in mind that some features might not work well. It’s a good idea to check if it is compatible with your current internet service.

What Apps Are Available on the BT YouView Box?

The BT YouView Box has many apps for you to use, including:

  • BBC iPlayer
  • ITV Hub
  • All 4
  • Netflix
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Disney Plus
  • NOW TV (on some packages)
  • BT Sport
  • Spotify

How Do I Record Shows on My BT YouView Box?

To record a show:

  • Look for the program in the TV guide.
  • Press the Record button on your remote.
  • Choose to record just one episode or the whole series.
  • Confirm what you picked.

You can set recordings using the BT TV app on your smartphone.

What Are the Subscription Costs for the BT YouView Box?

BT TV packages begin at £17 a month. There are several options that add more channels and features. Prices can change depending on current deals and bundled services. It is a good idea to visit the BT website to find the latest pricing information.

How Do I Connect My BT YouView Box to the Internet?

To connect your BT YouView Box to the internet:

  • Press the Home button on your remote.
  • Go to Settings, then Network, and select Internet connection.
  • Choose 'Wireless' and pick your Wi-Fi network.
  • Type in your Wi-Fi password.
  • Wait for the internet connection to be set up.

You can also use an Ethernet cable to connect if your router is close.

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