Sky was one of the first telly providers to switch to streaming. The company first launched its Sky Glass TV, which doesn’t need a dish to work and uses the web to beam content to the screen instead. This was then followed by the firm’s Stream box, which brings the ability to stream Sky’s plethora of channels to any TV. Now, in a carbon copy of what Sky offers, Freely is doing exactly the same.
This service, which first launched last year, has only offered the ability to stream channels on new TVs that have the service built in.
However, that’s about to change. Just as Sky did with its Stream box, Freely is now about to launch a new set-top box that will bring its platform to any tellies UK homes already own.
The device is being made by Netgem and will arrive later this year. Once plugged in, it will offer full access to over 40 live channels – via a broadband connection – plus endless hours of catch up TV.
Along with those channels, Freely’s box will come with a Mini-Guide to help easily switch between channels; move seamlessly from live to on demand, as well as pause and restart live TV.
There wil also be the option to save all favourite shows from the UK’s biggest free-to-air broadcasters with My List plus the interactive main TV Guide will offer seven-day forward and backward functionality.
Freely, which is actually owned by the same team that runs Freeview, is also promising regular, automatic updates for constantly evolving features, channels and content.
Of course, unlike Sky, once the device has been purchased, everything is then free to watch meaning no subscription fees need to be paid.
Speaking about the update, Jonathan Thompson, CEO, Everyone TV, said: “Freely was created to make free TV work for everyone. Expanding to ‘plug-in and stream’ devices is an important and natural next step to ensure even more homes can enjoy the full Freely experience without the need for a TV upgrade or paid subscription.”
And Sylvain Thevenot, Managing Director of Netgem U.K., added: “Netgem is delighted to introduce the first Freely streaming device to the market with Everyone TV. This innovation represents a game-changer for viewers who seek 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 and breathes a second life to all TV sets at an affordable price.”