In the UK, Sky and Freeview have long been the dominant players in the television market, reaching millions of households. However, a new competitor, Freely, emerged in 2024 and quickly gained popularity with over one million households switching to its platform.
Since its inception, Freely has continuously enhanced its features and expanded its content offerings. It now boasts over 50 live channels accessible without the need for traditional aerial or dish installations.
The latest development from Freely is the introduction of Freely Spotlight Channels, which provide additional entertainment options to viewers at no extra cost. These channels can be streamed exclusively through a standard Wi-Fi connection, making them easily accessible.
Freely has announced that the Spotlight Channels will be located on channel 31 and channels 90 to 99, with availability extended to CTV OS partners on Freely-enabled devices. V (formerly VIDAA), the company behind the VIDAA OS smart TV platform used in Hisense TVs, will be the launch partner, offering a curated selection of channels through the Freely TV Guide.
These new channels will be integrated alongside established UK broadcasters in the TV guide, enhancing visibility and credibility within the regulated UK television landscape. While specific content details have not been disclosed yet, more information is expected closer to the launch date.
Chief Commercial Officer at Everyone TV, Deep Halder, emphasized the platform’s commitment to delivering long-term value and creating new opportunities for partners while ensuring free and trusted TV content remains easily accessible to UK audiences in the digital age.
For those unfamiliar with Freely, it is managed by the team behind Freeview and Freesat but delivers all content through broadband, eliminating the need for traditional antennas or satellite dishes. Users only require a compatible TV or set-top box and a stable Wi-Fi connection to access Freely’s offerings.
The platform currently provides over 50 live channels, on-demand content, personalized recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, and the capability to pause live TV, offering a versatile viewing experience to its users.
