Virgin Media is winding down support for its decade-old TiVo set-top box, and the next casualty is BBC iPlayer. From 23 July 2025, the iPlayer app will stop working on TiVo, marking another step toward the platform’s retirement. But affected users aren’t being left behind — Virgin Media is offering them a free upgrade to the more capable TV 360 box.
This change affects a small number of users still using the legacy TiVo platform. It’s part of Virgin Media’s broader shift toward newer hardware that supports a faster, more app-integrated viewing experience.
BBC iPlayer Set to Exit TiVo Boxes
Users who’ve recently accessed iPlayer on TiVo boxes have been contacted directly by Virgin Media, informing them that iPlayer support will be discontinued from 23 July 2025. While the TiVo box itself won’t stop working, one of its key on-demand services will become inaccessible.
The withdrawal of iPlayer is linked to the ageing software stack of the TiVo platform. Virgin Media has not explicitly said whether the decision came from them or the BBC, but the likely scenario is that iPlayer’s backend updates are no longer compatible with older hardware.
TiVo was originally launched in the UK in 2011. Over time, many streaming services have stopped supporting it as they optimise for more modern APIs, higher resolutions, and broader device integration.
Virgin Offers Free Upgrade to TV 360 Box
To make sure users aren’t left without access to BBC content, Virgin Media is offering a free upgrade to its more advanced TV 360 platform. Customers can opt-in and get the new box at no extra cost. This move is intended to future-proof the viewing experience and ensure compatibility with all current streaming platforms, including iPlayer.
The offer is open to all TiVo users — though Virgin is mainly contacting those who actively used iPlayer recently. Customers who choose not to upgrade can keep using their TiVo box, but support for other apps is also expected to phase out eventually.
TiVo vs TV 360: What’s the Difference?
TiVo boxes were a significant upgrade when they first launched. But in 2025, they’re outdated in both software and hardware. They lack modern streaming compatibility and are slow by today’s standards.
By comparison, the Virgin TV 360 platform is built to handle high-resolution content, app integration, and fast navigation. The interface is cleaner, the box is faster, and the overall experience is more in line with what modern users expect.
Key advantages of TV 360 over TiVo:
- Native support for apps like iPlayer, Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video
- 4K UHD content support
- Voice control with the TV 360 remote
- Personalised profiles for each household member
- Faster navigation and response time
- Cloud recording options
Virgin Media TV and Broadband Packages
Virgin Media bundles its TV services with broadband, often offering competitive speeds at good prices. Their TV and broadband combo deals cater to various user needs — from casual viewers to 4K streamers and sports fans.
One of the most popular bundles is the Bigger Combo Bundle. It typically includes:
- M250 fibre broadband (average speeds of 264Mbps)
- Over 100 live TV channels
- Virgin TV 360 box
- Weekend landline calls
Add-ons like Sky Sports, Sky Cinema, and kids’ channels can be added. Virgin also runs regular offers, such as free setup, no upfront costs, or bill credits.
For users who need faster speeds, Virgin’s Gig1 broadband can be paired with TV 360 — ideal for households with multiple users streaming in 4K, gaming online, and using cloud storage simultaneously.
Upgrade Your Entertainment Setup
Browse Virgin Media’s latest broadband and TV deals — perfect for your next-gen setup.
See Latest DealsChanges Ahead for TiVo Set-Top Box Users
This change is another sign that the TiVo platform is on borrowed time. While it will continue working for basic TV for now, app support will keep shrinking. BBC iPlayer is just the first of several major services that could drop out.
Virgin Media’s focus is clearly on TV 360 and Stream — its newer platforms that better match modern content delivery trends. The free upgrade offer is a good opportunity for TiVo users to switch to something more responsive, current, and long-term viable.
How Virgin TV 360 Compares to Sky and BT
Virgin Media’s TV offering competes directly with platforms like Sky Q, Sky Glass, and BT TV Box Pro. All three support 4K streaming and include integration with major streaming services.
Sky Q has long been Sky’s flagship platform, offering multiroom access, 4K content, and voice control. Sky Glass is their newer smart-TV based option, which doesn’t need a set-top box at all.
BT’s TV Box Pro integrates with BT’s Full Fibre broadband and includes access to Freeview, NOW TV (Sky channels), Netflix, and other services.
| Feature | Virgin TV 360 | Sky Q | BT TV Box Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| App Integration | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Recording | Cloud and local | Cloud and local | Cloud and local |
| Multiroom Option | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Streaming Focus | Strong | Strong | Moderate |
Virgin TV 360’s biggest advantage is how well it integrates with the provider’s gigabit broadband. When paired with fast internet, TV 360 delivers smooth streaming and responsive app performance.
Explore TV Alternatives from BT and Sky
Not sure about Virgin Media? Compare features and pricing with BT TV and Sky’s latest bundles.
Final Overview
If you’re a TiVo user and you value on-demand content like BBC iPlayer, it’s time to upgrade. The TV 360 box is not just a replacement — it’s a full step up in performance, content access, and user experience. With the upgrade being free, there’s little reason to hold back.
Virgin Media’s overall direction is clear: phase out legacy hardware and move toward a modern, app-driven TV ecosystem that works hand in hand with fast fibre broadband. And for most users, that’s a welcome shift.