British TV companies have announced the launch of a new free live TV streaming service, set to debut in 2024. This exciting development is expected to be a significant advantage for cord cutters, who prefer alternative ways of accessing their favorite content.
Known as Freely, this innovative service will enable viewers to browse and watch live TV channels, as well as stream on-demand content directly to their smart TVs through the internet. The aim is to replicate the traditional terrestrial TV experience, similar to the existing Freeview TV platform.
Freely is being developed by Everyone TV, an organization jointly owned by major British broadcasters including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5, which advocate for free TV in the UK. This new venture represents a substantial investment in streaming technology, highlighting the growing demand for flexible content consumption options while still maintaining a sense of familiarity.
According to data from the Broadcasters’ Audience Research Board, on average, 57% of daily viewing time per person across all devices is dedicated to live broadcast content. Moreover, 14% of UK television households currently rely solely on broadband connectivity.
Everyone TV CEO Jonathan Thompson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to be working with the public service broadcasters on the next phase of free TV’s evolution. This new development reflects the fact that a growing number of UK viewers are watching content online but still want easy access to the shared experience of live TV.”
In addition, Freely is expected to complement the recent provisions for on-demand and streaming prominence outlined in the draft Media Bill, released in March. The bill aims to aid British public service broadcasters such as the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, STV, and S4C in better competing with subscription-based online platforms. It also includes measures to enhance the accessibility and discoverability of public service broadcast content on smart TVs, set-top boxes, and streaming sticks.
The broadcasters involved expressed their hopes that this new service will cater to the shifting viewing habits of their audience. Tim Davie, director general of the BBC, emphasized the importance of sustaining the universality of public-service television: “We are delighted to be deepening our collaboration in helping viewers access our content, ensuring that, in a digital age, we deliver value for all audiences and that no one is left behind.”
Alex Mahon, CEO of Channel 4, also embraced this development, stating, “Streaming TV is increasingly the new normal for audiences, particularly young viewers, so it has never been more important for trusted PSB content to be readily available to everyone, for free.”
With the launch of Freely, British TV viewers can eagerly anticipate a modern and convenient way to enjoy their favorite programs, all while maintaining the cherished experience of live television.
