Freely streaming service expands beyond smart TVs to dedicated devices

In April 2024, Everyone TV introduced the Freely streaming service in the United Kingdom, providing access to popular television channels once available only through Freeview. This service allows viewers to stream content over the Internet without requiring traditional aerial or dish receivers or built-in digital tuners. Recently, Everyone TV announced a significant expansion aimed at enhancing accessibility. They will launch the first non-TV device compatible with the Freely service, a plug-in streaming puck developed by the French technology company Netgem. This device will offer an alternative for consumers who do not wish to invest in compatible smart TVs from specific brands such as Hisense, Bush, and others. The puck will allow any television with an HDMI port to access Freely's extensive range of live channels and on-demand content. This innovation is part of a broader movement to simplify viewer access to public service media in an evolving streaming-centric environment. The announcement comes on the heels of regulatory calls in the UK for better strategies to deliver public service media. Everyone TV's CEO Jonathan Thompson emphasized that this move is crucial in ensuring that a wider audience can enjoy Freely without needing to upgrade their TV or pay a subscription fee. While a specific release date or pricing details for the Netgem puck weren't disclosed, it is expected to arrive later this year as a simple and affordable solution, integrating Freely's features alongside popular global and local streaming applications. This synchronized effort between Everyone TV and Netgem is seen as a pivotal step towards creating a streamlined television experience, as the demand for flexible streaming options continues to rise in the UK.