A relatively new player in the UK TV market, Freely, has been gaining traction since its inception in 2024, attracting over a million households. Offering more than 50 live channels without the need for traditional aerial or dish installations, Freely has now introduced its Freely Spotlight Channels, expanding its entertainment options at no extra cost. These new channels will be accessible through a standard Wi-Fi connection and will be featured on channel 31, as well as channels 90 to 99, including availability on CTV OS partners on Freely-enabled devices.
V, the company behind the VIDAA OS smart TV platform used in Hisense televisions, has partnered with Freely to bring a curated selection of channels to the Freely TV Guide. The aim is to enhance the visibility and credibility of selected channels within the regulated UK TV landscape. While specific content details for the Spotlight Channels have not been disclosed yet, more information is expected closer to the launch date.
Chief Commercial Officer at Everyone TV, Deep Halder, expressed the focus on delivering long-term value for partners and audiences alike as Freely expands its offerings. By allowing CTV OS partners to engage in specific sections of the TV guide, Freely aims to create new opportunities while ensuring free, trusted TV content remains easily accessible in the streaming era. V’s role as the launch partner for Freely’s Spotlight Channels is seen as a natural progression given their initial collaboration at Freely’s inception.
For those unfamiliar with Freely, it is operated by the same team behind Freeview and Freesat, offering content delivery solely through broadband connections, eliminating the need for traditional TV equipment. Users only require a compatible TV or set-top box and a stable Wi-Fi connection to access Freely’s features, which include over 50 live channels, on-demand content, personalized recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, and the ability to pause live TV.