By Dave Snelling,Robert Harries
Copyright walesonline
Freeview and Sky continue to be the go-to platforms for UK households keen on their telly, with millions of customers tuning in daily. However, a relatively fresh competitor seems to be making strides at an impressive pace. Freely, which was launched last summer, provides a straightforward way to watch live and on-demand content without the need for an aerial affixed to your chimney. It’s also run by the same team behind Freeview, meaning everything broadcasted is completely free to view with no monthly subscription fees. All that’s required to tune in is a compatible telly. Initially, Freely screens were limited, but now there’s a wide range of models available, some priced under £150. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter . Panasonic, Toshiba, Bush and Hisense have all hopped on the Freely bandwagon, with more expected to join in due course, reports the Mirror . Freely reveals that just over a year since its launch, it now reaches over half a million weekly users and is particularly popular with 16–34s – the largest group of early adopters. Freely is also proud to announce that it’s projected to become the UK’s largest TV device platform by 2030. In addition to its user-friendly nature, another advantage of Freely is its new features and regular updates. Those with a Freely telly can now pause live TV, receive content recommendations and travel back in time via the backwards telly guide. While Freeview and Sky continue to dominate in terms of overall viewer numbers, Freely appears to be building momentum and may pose a genuine threat in years to come. Amy Rowcliffe, Marketing Director at Everyone TV, said: “As a mum of two young girls, I see every day how TV brings us together. Whether it’s watching Bake Off as a family or the girls singing along to The Masked Singer. “Some shows just become part of your family life, and our research proves that’s true across the country. “With Freely, we’re making sure those moments are easy for everyone to stream and enjoy. All the best British TV, in one place, and completely free. “It’s brilliant to see younger audiences embracing it too, which shows free TV has a big role to play for the next generation.” Naturally, Sky now provides its Glass TV and Stream box which similarly utilise internet connections to deliver programmes, films and additional content to televisions. Whilst there’s a monthly charge involved, Sky’s offerings also provide access to more exclusive material, featuring the newest movies, F1 coverage and Premier League matches.
