Teletext, the iconic service that has been providing information and entertainment for 34 years, is set to shut down on October 12th. Although many people were unaware that Teletext was still in operation, its impending closure has left a wave of nostalgia among its users.
Formally launched in 1987, Teletext quickly became a staple in many households. People religiously checked the numbered pages, known as Aertel, for the latest news, sports scores, cinema listings, and even lottery results. While it may seem primitive compared to today’s technology, Teletext was a valuable service in the pre-internet era. It also played a crucial role for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as it offered subtitles for TV shows.
Despite the introduction of digital services in 2019, RTÉ, the company behind Teletext, has decided to discontinue the service due to resource constraints. This has saddened many loyal users who still frequented Aertel. One person shared on social media that an elderly gentleman with dementia finds comfort in exploring the pages of Teletext, even though the same information can be easily found with a quick Google search.
Social media has been flooded with posts expressing fond memories and thoughts about Teletext. The hashtag #Aertel has been trending, with users sharing personal stories and connections to the service. Some recalled using Teletext for their English homework, while others credited it for sparking their interest in journalism.
Notable personalities have also spoken about their experiences with Teletext. Newstalk presenter Shane Beatty reminisced about spending his childhood practicing reading the news on Teletext, while journalist and presenter Katie Hannon shared a throwback picture of herself writing stories for the service.
Although Teletext may have seemed archaic to some, it held a special place in the hearts of many. Its shutdown marks the end of an era. As people bid farewell to the familiar blocky text, it’s clear that Teletext’s impact will not be forgotten.
