Gradual shutdown of tivùsat smartcards with Tiger technology. What are they and how can you prepare?

Find out which tivùsat smartcards will be deactivated starting in 2026, and how to continue watching Italian satellite TV with certified tivùsat HD and 4K solutions.
May 12, 2026

Thousands of Italian households may soon experience disruptions to their satellite TV service, as tivùsat gradually switches off older smart cards and obsolete devices. The gradual shutdown of Tiger technology smart cards and associated devices began in the first quarter of 2026, as part of a major technological transition aimed at improving security, compatibility, and access to modern HD and 4K content.

For many users, this means it is now time to upgrade their equipment to continue enjoying uninterrupted access to Italian satellite television channels. Fortunately, certified solutions such as the STRONG SRT 7807 tivùsat Receiver and the STRONG CAM 4K tivùsat make the transition easy.

Why are some tivùsat smartcards deactivated?

The tivùsat switch is part of a broader modernization process involving older-generation smart cards and satellite reception devices that no longer meet current security and transmission standards.

According to official information released by tivùsat and its industry partners, the gradual shutdown affects smart cards using the old "Tiger" technology and associated devices. The shutdown process began in the first quarter of 2026 and will gradually continue until 2028.

Several generations of tivùsat smart cards will be affected, including:

  • tivùsat blue smart cards
  • gold HD smart cards
  • gray 4K smart cards
  • select limited-edition cards
  • tivùsat Professional smart cards
  • old RAI smart cards

These smart cards are associated with older-generation certified decoders and CAM modules based on now obsolete security protocols.

The reason behind this transition is not simply software compatibility. Technology provider Tiger has officially discontinued support for the system, promoting the ecosystem's migration to newer, more secure technologies. tivùsat explains that modern broadcast environments now require more effective anti-piracy protection, enhanced content security, and support for higher-quality HD and 4K broadcasts across all satellite platforms.

This evolution reflects broader changes underway in the television industry, where viewers increasingly expect Ultra HD quality, modern decoding technologies, and reliable, long-lasting access to content.

It's important to note that not all tivùsat products are affected. Newer solutions using Merlin technology, such as the latest certified CAM modules and the latest-generation tivùsat decoders, will continue to function normally.

How to understand if your devices are affected by the issue?

If your tivùsat receiver was purchased many years ago, it is very likely to be affected by the upcoming switch-off.

Users who continue to use older CAM modules or satellite decoders associated with Tiger smartcards may gradually experience:

  • black screens
  • missing channels
  • authorization errors
  • inability to access HD or 4K services
  • unexpected service interruptions

Many users may initially think that simply replacing the smartcard is sufficient. However, tivùsat and various industry sources explain that the problem is also hardware-related. Older decoders and CAM modules do not support the new security technologies required after the closure of the Tiger platform.

The first deactivations began on March 16, 2026, while the migration process will gradually continue over the following months and years.

Check your smartcard and the shutdown period

Click on the following link:

tivùsat Tiger Smartcard Shutdown - tivùsat

To continue watching all satellite channels for free, you can now choose from various tivùsat-certified devices with Merlin technology and a matching tivùsat smartcard.

The STRONG SRT 7807 tivùsat receiver

For users looking to replace an older satellite decoder, the STRONG SRT 7807 tivùsat Receiver offers a modern and reliable upgrade solution.

Officially certified by tivùsat, the SRT 7807 is designed to ensure seamless access to high-quality Italian satellite TV channels. Its intuitive interface and simple installation process make it the ideal choice for families looking to upgrade to a new system without technical complications.

The receiver supports modern broadcast standards and is ready for the latest tivùsat requirements, ensuring users will enjoy compatibility for many years to come. It also offers a more comfortable viewing experience thanks to access to HD channels and improved performance compared to older-generation devices.

Whether replacing an outdated receiver or preparing for future tivùsat updates, the SRT 7807 offers a reliable and future-proof solution.

Continue using your current TV with STRONG CAM 4K tivùsat

For users who already own a television with an integrated satellite tuner and CI+ slot, the STRONG CAM 4K tivùsat is an excellent alternative.

Rather than adding an external decoder, the CAM module integrates directly into compatible televisions, ensuring simple installation and full access to tivùsat services.

Officially certified by tivùsat, the CAM module supports Ultra HD in HD and 4K Ultra HD, making it the ideal solution for the latest generation of televisions. It allows viewers to enjoy Italian satellite channels with excellent image quality, while maintaining a stylish home entertainment system.

The STRONG CAM4KTIVUSAT's easy installation makes everything quick and convenient, especially for users looking for a discreet solution that doesn't require additional devices or cables.

As tivùsat continues its transition to more modern technologies, having compatible and certified equipment becomes essential to ensure uninterrupted access to satellite television services.

Whether you prefer a dedicated satellite receiver or a compact CAM solution integrated directly into your television, STRONG offers reliable products designed for the next generation of tivùsat.

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