The dominance of Freeview in the realm of no-cost TV viewing remains indisputable. Offering a plethora of channels accessible through a standard rooftop antenna, Freeview has become a staple in countless UK households for nightly entertainment. However, the landscape may be shifting as more individuals pivot towards streaming platforms, marking a significant transition from traditional viewing methods. Sky’s Stream box and Glass TV, leveraging internet connectivity to deliver live shows, sports, and movies, have emerged as top-selling products, signaling a shift in consumer preferences.
A noteworthy contender in this evolving landscape is Freely, a brainchild of the same team behind Freeview. Launched last year, Freely continues to evolve, with an increasing number of manufacturers incorporating it into their screens and introducing new features. Notably, a recent enhancement includes a backward TV guide, facilitating access to previously aired content. The platform’s strategic development and potential introduction of a dedicated set-top box could pose a serious challenge to Freeview’s current standing.
Presently, accessing Freely necessitates purchasing a new television with the service pre-installed, limiting its reach. Additionally, prominent manufacturers like LG and Samsung have yet to integrate Freely into their screens, hindering widespread adoption. The introduction of a standalone set-top box could resolve these issues, potentially making Freely a more compelling option for viewers seeking a seamless entertainment experience.
Looking ahead, BBC’s Tim Davie envisions a digital future, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing audience preferences and embracing new opportunities in a post-broadcast era. With plans for an IP switchover in the 2030s, the BBC aims to enhance inclusivity and accessibility, spotlighting the role of Freely as a universal free service for live TV delivery over broadband. Consideration is also underway for a streaming media device with built-in Freely capabilities, featuring a user-friendly interface tailored for those yet to benefit from IP services.
In parallel developments, TiVo has hinted at the possibility of introducing a Freely-powered set-top box in the UK, potentially rivaling Sky Stream’s functionality in transforming conventional TVs into comprehensive smart content hubs. While specifics are scarce at the moment, the industry is abuzz with anticipation for further updates in this dynamic landscape.
