The UK’s public service broadcasters have launched joint streaming service Freely.
Backed by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, Freely allows audiences to stream live TV channels alongside on demand content from the UK’s leading broadcasters.
The new service marks the first time all four of Britain’s public service broadcasters have come together to launch a streaming proposition.
Launched by joint venture Everyone TV, formerly Digital UK, Freely is available via smart TVs now on sale and aims to futureproof live TV for the streaming age. Everyone TV also runs the UK’s free-to-view TV platforms – Freeview and Freesat.
Kieran Clifton, Director, BBC Distribution & Business Development, said: “The launch of Freely is a historic moment for UK television. Collaboration between the UK PSBs is critical to connecting and protecting all audiences as we transition towards the streaming era – and delivering live TV over broadband for free is a ground-breaking innovation that will futureproof public service broadcasting.”
Everyone TV has confirmed that STV and S4C will also bring their channels and on demand content to Freely, via broadband.
Hisense, previously announced as the first Freely smart TV partner, brings Freely TVs to market today. TVs will be available in stores across the UK and online.
TiVo will also offer Freely as part of its TiVo OS platform. Initially Freely will be available via Vestel smart TVs Powered by TiVo. Vestel was previously announced as a Freely smart TV partner, with Vestel Freely TVs due to launch in the coming weeks.
More details around Freely will be announced in the coming weeks, including additional smart TV, operating system and content partners.
You are not signed in
Only registered users can comment on this article.
Sunderland’s Crown Works studio moves closer to construction
The final details for construction of a major TV and film studio in Sunderland have been set out in a revised application submitted to the city's planning authority.
World broadcasters meet to prepare for 2028 Olympics and Paralympics
Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) has briefed broadcasters on production and technology preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games (LA28).
.jpg)
Paramount and WBD pause merger after legal challenges
Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery are to delay their $110bn merger due to pending lawsuits from US states and the Writers Guild of America.
Mediaproxy partners with HVS for US broadcast market
Mediaproxy has named Heartland Video Systems (HVS) as its exclusive partner for US television broadcasting. The Wisconsin-based systems integrator will represent Mediaproxy’s full range of technologies, including LogServer and Monwall, and offer them as part of its installation portfolio.
Zixi and CTA partner for IP-based distribution
Live video delivery and workflow orchestration specialist Zixi and Comcast Technology Solutions (CTS) have announced a strategic new integration to deliver C-band replacement solutions for linear broadcasters and content distributors.
