Freely, a relatively new player in the UK streaming scene, has quickly gained traction since its 2024 launch. The platform recently hit a major milestone, surpassing one million weekly users, which could challenge established services like Freeview, Sky, and Virgin. This growth spurt, doubling the user base since September, positions Freely as the fastest-growing TV platform in the UK for 2025.
Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, expressed enthusiasm about this achievement, citing strong demand for a platform that offers live British TV streaming and on-demand content in one convenient location. He highlighted the collaborative effort of UK public service broadcasters in making quality British TV easily accessible through Freely.
While Freely still trails behind giants like Sky and Freeview, the shift towards streaming and away from costly subscriptions may help it narrow the gap sooner than anticipated. Unlike Freeview, Freely operates solely through broadband, ensuring a swift and simple setup process for users.
Noteworthy features of Freely include live TV pausing, personalized recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, as well as mini and backwards guides for schedule navigation. Initially compatible with a limited range of TVs, Freely has expanded its reach to include models from known brands like Hisense, Panasonic, Bush, and Sharp.
The introduction of Pleio, a streaming puck enabling access to Freely on nearly any TV, signals further advancements in the pipeline. Additional set-top devices are slated for release in the near future, bolstering Freely’s foothold in the market.