Freeview hit with 'major technical issues' on Sony DVD recorders after update (updated)

If Freeview is down on your Sony device in the UK, don't worry: you're not alone. Sony has tweeted that the service isn't working on many of its DVD recorders, like the RDR-HXD870, following a recent firmware update. The company said that "it appears something has change(d) in the way these devices are receiving EPG data from (Freeview operator) Arqiva," adding that some Pioneer DVD players are also affected. It's still trying to get to the bottom of the issue, but pointed to several temporary fixes on its community forums that might tide you over (check the More Coverage link). If that doesn't do it, you'll have to wait for new firmware or get your TV fix elsewhere.

Update: Sony's put up a support page with fixes you can try if you're still without Freeview. It involves clearing any stored EPG data by simply rebooting, or by performing a full factory reset. Head to the source for the step-by-step.

Update 2: Sony has told us that they don't blame Arqiva for the issue, and are instead chalking it up to "corrupt data originated by broadcasters, and how this data was processed by affected Sony devices." Also, though many devices were stuck in update mode, new firmware was reportedly not responsible for the problem, either. See Sony's full comment below.