Expansion of Freely ushers in a new era for modern free-to-air television

Millions of UK households are now able to access a premium-style TV experience at no extra cost as Freely’s latest rollout brings the platform to a far wider range of televisions. The update represents one of the most significant shifts in British free-to-air broadcasting in years, offering modern features traditionally associated with paid services — all delivered over broadband.

Freely, launched in 2024 by Everyone TV and backed by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, was created to bring live channels and on-demand content together in a single, streamlined experience. Unlike Freeview or Freesat, which rely on aerial or satellite signals, Freely uses an internet connection, opening the door for a more flexible and feature-rich alternative.

Initially, the platform was limited to specific new smart TVs equipped with Freely software. That barrier has now been removed through the arrival of devices such as the Netgem Pleio, a plug-in streaming box that allows almost any TV with an HDMI port to run Freely. This upgrade makes the service accessible to households that previously would have needed to replace their television to gain access.

The new hardware has been a game-changer for viewers who want modern TV features without committing to subscription-based platforms. The Pleio offers Freely’s full interface but also acts as a complete streaming hub, supporting apps like Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+. It even provides optional add-ons and cloud gaming, transforming older televisions into smart, multi-purpose entertainment centres.

By expanding access through external devices, Freely provides households with a credible alternative to paid TV packages. Viewers can enjoy a premium-style experience — a unified guide, easy navigation, pause and restart features, and integrated catch-up services — while paying nothing beyond broadband and the standard TV licence. This positions Freely as a strong competitor in the increasingly crowded streaming landscape.

The platform’s internet-first design also benefits households with unreliable aerial reception or those living in buildings where installing equipment like satellite dishes is impractical. With Freely, these limitations disappear, giving more homes dependable access to live and on-demand television without technical complexity.

Freely’s rollout also aligns with broader industry trends as broadcasters adapt to changing viewer habits. With more people choosing streaming over traditional broadcast methods, the UK’s main public service broadcasters are leveraging Freely to ensure free-to-air content remains widely accessible in a digital-first environment.

As support expands across additional hardware and smart TV platforms, Freely is expected to grow further in the coming years. Broadcasters are continuing to add new channels, and plans for future upgrades aim to improve content discovery and bring even more services under one roof.

For UK households seeking affordability without sacrificing modern convenience, Freely’s expanded availability marks a pivotal moment. With premium-style features made accessible to nearly any TV, the service is reshaping expectations of what free-to-air television can offer — and bringing a high-quality experience within reach for millions.

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