Freely, the free streaming platform backed by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and 5, is to launch its own plug-in streaming device later this year.
French entertainment technology company Netgem is confirmed as Freely’s first ‘plug-in and stream’ device partner, enabling Freely to run on televisions that do not have the platform built-in, via a plug-in puck.
The move was announced by Freely parent organisation Everyone TV.
Freely launched on new smart TVs in April last year, but the move to streaming devices will make it accessible to even more UK households, enabling them to stream live channels all in one place, for free. The puck will also provide access to Netgem’s Cloud Gaming service.
Freely recently agreed an integration deal with Roku Smart TVs, and also has a line-up of TV manufacturing and OS partners including Hisense, Bush, Toshiba, Sharp, Panasonic, Philips, JVC, TCL, Amazon Fire TV, METZ, VIDAA, TiVo and Titan, as well as feature updates announced earlier this year.
Freely
Jonathan Thompson, CEO, Everyone TV, said: “Freely was created to make free TV work for everyone. Expanding to ‘plug-in and stream’ devices is an important and natural next step to ensure even more homes can enjoy the full Freely experience without the need for a TV upgrade or paid subscription. In partnership with Netgem, we’re launching streaming devices to make it easier than ever for UK audiences to enjoy the nation’s favourite TV, for free, on the TV you already have.”
Sylvain Thevenot, Managing Director of Netgem UK, said: “This innovation represents a game-changer for viewers who seek a streamlined TV and entertainment experience delivered over Wi-Fi. The integration of Freely with Netgem’s entertainment service positions this streaming puck as the optimal choice for all households and breathes a second life to all TV sets at an affordable price.”
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