Freely is being made available via an internet protocol-only reception device for the first time, with a streaming puck from Netgem that goes on sale later this year.
The next-generation free-to-air service for the UK from Everyone TV (owned by public-service broadcasters the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and 5) has relied on its presence on smart TVs (as an HbbTV OpApp application) since its launch in April 2024.
All those smart TVs include broadcast tuners, which have given Freely viewers the option to receive the channels via broadcast or streaming, depending on their connectivity options and personal choice.
Freely features a programme guide where a channel can be either broadcast or streamed into the same channel slot, so viewers do not have to find a separate channel number for broadcast and streaming versions.
Netgem’s streaming puck does not include a broadcast tuner, so homes using this device will stream all their Freely channels. Since day one, Freely marketing has majored on its availability via Wi-Fi and downplayed the broadcast option, but this is the first time there is no broadcast option on a device that features Freely.
The Netgem puck will expand the addressable market for Freely to homes that are not replacing their smart TV (or to homes that are replacing their TV but not with a model that includes Freely).
Freely is not currently available on Samsung or LG TVs, for example. It does have a diverse and growing line-up of manufacturer and operating system partners, however, including: Amazon Fire TV, Bush, Hisense, JVC, Metz, Panasonic, Philips, Roku, Sharp, TCL, Titan, TiVo, Toshiba and Vidaa.
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Significant step
Everyone TV sees the Netgem launch as a significant step forward in its long-term strategy to ensure free-to-view content remains easily accessible and visible in the streaming era.
“Whether built into your next-generation smart TV or plugged into your current one, Freely will offer the same trusted experience,” the company said.
Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, added: “Expanding to ‘plug-in and stream’ devices will ensure even more homes can enjoy the full Freely experience without the need for a TV upgrade.
“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.”
Freely utilises the full funnel to build a brand from scratch
Freely appears as an app on the Netgem device, where it combines linear TV and a programme guide with on-demand content. Popular global and streaming apps will also be present, plus some non-Freely streaming channels. The puck also provides access to Netgem’s cloud gaming service.
Sylvain Thevenot, managing director at Netgem UK, added: “This innovation represents a game-changer for viewers seeking 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.”
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