Millions of households in the UK are utilizing the internet to access live and on-demand content, with a potential shift looming for more Britons to follow suit. A recent study, sponsored by Sky, indicates that nearly all residences could have the option of internet-based TV by the mid-2030s, leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial distribution methods like Freeview.
Various alternatives to traditional aerial-based TV viewing already exist, including Sky’s latest streaming services and the recently launched Freely platform, which is affiliated with the creators of Freeview. Freely is now integrated into many new television sets, offering viewers access to both live and on-demand programming through a broadband connection.
As more internet-connected devices make their way into homes, fewer individuals are relying on conventional broadcast television, opting instead for streaming services. Additionally, a concern for Freeview is the potential sharing of its radio frequencies with mobile operators post-2031, which could further jeopardize its current over-the-air transmission setup.
The rising costs associated with maintaining the aging TV distribution system are prompting discussions within the UK government on future strategies. Nick Herm, Group Chief Operating Officer at Sky, emphasized the compatibility of modern TV viewing with social inclusion, suggesting that a complete transition to internet-delivered TV by the 2030s could aid in bridging the digital gap and yield cost savings from legacy system maintenance.
While some welcome the transition to streaming services, not everyone is enthusiastic. A petition opposing the phasing out of Freeview has garnered over 100,000 signatures, with concerns raised about the accessibility challenges posed by streaming requirements compared to the simplicity of aerial-based TV reception.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, expressed her discontent with the potential changes, highlighting the essential role that Freeview plays in her daily TV consumption for entertainment, news, and knowledge. She emphasized the user-friendly nature of traditional TV setups compared to the complexities associated with streaming services.
Updates on the future of TV distribution methods are anticipated to be released in the near future.
