Still doesn't make sense to me that Youview channels were bought forward in the
EPG to the 300s rather than extended into the 600s to keep the 300s as an option for Freeview channels. And although moving the adult channels to the back of the EPG is great in theory in reality that could put them between a CBeebies red button stream and Radio 1 - so even though they're not broadcasting in the day it's still not ideal. Would be better to use the connected service as a buffer.
What's the plan for 140-199 then - are they just being sensible and future proofing or do they perhaps plan to perhaps add other genres - hopefully shopping. There's also enough channels now to justify a film section IMO,, and although Film4 could be the big loser in such a move I think the other channels would ultimately benefit, whilst Film4 heading the section should offset the move from LCN15.
As for the short channels - I think it's simple. If you broadcast for less than 3 hours a day you go into an overspill section.
A shopping section would reduce clutter on the Freeview EPG but destroy QVC and Ideal World's prominent position on the platform. No plans to segregate entertainment and shopping channels as laid out by Digital UK.
140-199 is dedicated for the rest of the entertainment/shopping channels. I'd expect the rest of the 90s to be filled up when they implement the changes - and with the DVB-T2 switch coming from 2017 I'd expect more channels to occupy the latter part of the 140-199 slots. It'd also allow ITV4 and Be's time shifts to rise up from EPG squat status, on COM4 at least.
News and documentary channels do need a boost though on Freeview. Wouldn't mind if channels like PBS America, CNN, France 24, etc, get a place on the platform.
‘Kept you waiting, huh?’- Solid Snake