Sky and Freeview have long been the dominant players in the UK TV market, reaching millions of households. However, a new competitor, Freely, emerged in 2024 and has quickly gained popularity with over one million households switching to its platform.
Since its inception, Freely has enhanced its features and expanded its content offerings, now providing access to over 50 live channels without requiring traditional aerial or satellite dish installations.
In a recent development, Freely has introduced its new Freely Spotlight Channels, offering additional entertainment to users at no extra charge. These channels will be streamed solely through a standard Wi-Fi connection.
According to Freely, the Spotlight Channels will be accessible on channel 31 and channels 90 to 99, also being made available to CTV OS partners on Freely-enabled devices.
V (formerly VIDAA), the company behind the VIDAA OS smart TV platform found in Hisense TVs, has been confirmed as the launch partner for the Spotlight Channels. It will introduce a curated selection of channels from its lineup to the Freely TV Guide.
The Freely Spotlight Channels will be integrated alongside established UK broadcasters in the TV guide, giving selected channels increased visibility and credibility within the regulated UK TV landscape.
While specific content details are yet to be disclosed, more information is expected closer to the launch date.
Deep Halder, Chief Commercial Officer at Everyone TV, commented: “As Freely continues to expand, our focus remains on creating a platform that delivers lasting value across the ecosystem.
“Enabling CTV OS partners to engage in specific sections of the TV guide allows us to generate new opportunities for our partners, while ensuring that free, trusted TV content remains easily accessible to UK audiences in the digital era.
“Given their initial partnership with Freely at its launch two years ago, it is fitting that V is at the forefront as our Spotlight Channels launch partner, featuring prominently within the TV Guide.”
If you are unfamiliar with Freely, it is managed by the same team responsible for Freeview and Freesat. The distinguishing factor is that all content is delivered through broadband, eliminating the need for traditional aerials, satellite dishes, or complex installations.
To access Freely, households only require a compatible TV or set-top box and a reliable Wi-Fi connection. The platform currently offers over 50 live channels, on-demand content, personalized recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, and the ability to pause live TV.
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