Freely’s wider rollout promises simpler, smarter TV access across the UK

UK television viewers are set to benefit from a major improvement as Freely, the broadband-powered free-to-air platform, becomes far easier to install on a wide range of TVs. The expansion marks a turning point for households looking to upgrade their viewing experience without replacing existing sets or relying on traditional aerial connections.

Freely launched in 2024 as a next-generation service built by Everyone TV, bringing together live channels and catch-up content from the UK’s major broadcasters, including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5. Unlike Freeview or Freesat, Freely delivers all its content over the internet, reducing the technical hurdles often associated with broadcast reception.

Until recently, Freely was only available on specific new smart TVs equipped with the necessary software. That limitation has now eased significantly thanks to the arrival of devices like the Netgem Pleio — a compact streaming box that adds Freely support to almost any television with an HDMI port. Priced at £99, it offers a straightforward way to unlock modern features on older TVs.

The Pleio device does more than simply add Freely to a TV. It operates as a complete streaming hub, offering access to popular apps such as Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and other major on-demand services. It also supports cloud gaming and optional channel bundles, providing a flexible upgrade path for households that want more than basic live TV.

This move has major benefits for homes that struggle with poor aerial reception or inconsistent signal quality. Because Freely streams entirely over broadband, viewers in rural areas or older buildings no longer need to rely on external antennas, satellite dishes or complex installation work. A stable internet connection is all that’s required.

Freely’s internet-first design enables features that traditional free-to-air platforms cannot deliver. Users benefit from a modern electronic programme guide, the ability to pause and restart live broadcasts, and fast access to on-demand libraries from all major UK broadcasters — all within a unified interface designed to simplify everyday viewing.

For those with older or budget televisions, the latest update removes a key barrier to accessing modern TV services. Instead of purchasing a new set, viewers can now enhance their existing one with an affordable plug-in device, making Freely a practical and cost-efficient upgrade for millions of households.

Industry analysts view the platform’s expansion as part of a broader shift away from terrestrial and satellite broadcasting. As more homes adopt broadband-delivered TV, the infrastructure demands of traditional systems may gradually decline, positioning services like Freely as the future backbone of free television in the UK.

The rollout also strengthens the role of public service broadcasters in the streaming era. By unifying their content in one accessible platform, the UK’s major broadcasters offer a cohesive alternative to international streaming giants, ensuring free-to-air television remains competitive and widely available.

As Freely becomes easier to install and more widely supported, UK viewers gain greater choice, flexibility and convenience in how they access live and on-demand programming. This upgrade signals a new chapter for free TV, making modern digital viewing accessible to a broader audience than ever before.