Many households in the UK are already utilizing the internet for live and on-demand content consumption, and it appears that more Britons may soon follow suit. A recent study, commissioned by Sky, indicates that by the mid-2030s, nearly all households could have access to internet-based TV services, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial distribution methods like Freeview.
The landscape of TV viewing is evolving, with various options available that do not require an aerial, including Sky’s latest streaming offerings and the Freely service, a product from the team behind Freeview. Freely, integrated into numerous new TVs, allows viewers to access live and on-demand programming through a broadband connection.
The rise of internet-connected devices in homes is reshaping viewership habits, with fewer individuals relying on traditional broadcast television and turning to streaming services instead.
Freeview faces challenges concerning the allocation of its radio frequencies to mobile operators post-2031, potentially jeopardizing its current over-the-air transmission model. The increasing maintenance costs of this aging system have prompted discussions within the UK government about future strategies.
Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the positive implications of transitioning to internet-delivered TV, citing the potential to bridge the digital divide and reduce costs associated with maintaining legacy systems. He highlighted the importance of government investment in skills and affordable connectivity for households still reliant on traditional TV access.
While some welcome the shift towards streaming, there is opposition, as evidenced by a petition with over 100,000 signatures protesting the elimination of Freeview. Concerns include the reliance on stable and costly internet connections for streaming compared to the simplicity of aerial-based viewing.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, expressed her discontent with the proposed changes, emphasizing the importance of Freeview in her daily routine for entertainment, news, and learning opportunities. She voiced concerns about the potential complexities of transitioning to app-based viewing experiences.
Stay tuned for further updates on the future of television broadcasting.