Two major players in the UK TV market, Sky and Freeview, have long been dominant in delivering content to households across the country. However, a new contender, Freely, emerged in 2024 and has rapidly gained popularity, attracting over one million households to switch to its services.
Since its inception, Freely has continuously enhanced its features and expanded its content offerings, now boasting over 50 live channels accessible without the need for traditional aerial or satellite dish installations.
Adding to its appeal, Freely has introduced its latest feature, the Freely Spotlight Channels, providing additional entertainment options to viewers at no extra cost. These channels will be accessible through a standard Wi-Fi connection.
The Freely Spotlight Channels will be located on channel 31 and channels 90 to 99, also accessible to CTV OS partners using Freely-enabled devices. V, formerly known as VIDAA, the company behind the VIDAA OS smart TV platform found in Hisense TVs, will be the primary launch partner, offering a curated selection of its channels through the Freely TV Guide.
These new channels will be integrated alongside established UK broadcasters in the TV guide, providing selected channels with increased visibility and credibility within the regulated UK TV landscape.
While the specific content lineup for the Freely Spotlight Channels has not been confirmed yet, more details are expected closer to the launch date.
Chief Commercial Officer at Everyone TV, Deep Halder, stated, “As Freely continues to grow, we are dedicated to creating a platform that delivers sustained value throughout the ecosystem. Allowing CTV OS partners to engage in specific TV guide sections opens up new opportunities for our partners, while ensuring that free, reliable TV content remains easily accessible to UK audiences in the era of streaming.”
“V, our initial partner at Freely’s launch two years ago, is leading the way as our Spotlight Channels launch partner, featuring prominently within the TV Guide with its new channels,” Halder added.
If you’re unfamiliar with Freely, it is operated by the same team responsible for Freeview and Freesat, offering a unique approach where all content is delivered through a broadband connection, eliminating the need for traditional antennas or complex installations.
To access Freely, households only require a compatible TV or set-top box and a stable Wi-Fi connection. The platform currently delivers over 50 live channels, on-demand content, personalized recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, and the ability to pause live TV.