Freely, a relatively new player in the UK streaming market, has quickly gained traction since its 2024 launch. The platform recently achieved a significant milestone by surpassing one million weekly users, positioning it as the fastest-growing TV platform in the UK in 2025.
Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, expressed excitement over reaching this milestone, attributing it to the increasing demand for a convenient platform offering live British TV streaming and on-demand content. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of UK public service broadcasters in making quality British TV easily accessible through Freely.
Although Freely still lags behind industry giants like Sky and Freeview in terms of scale, its focus on streaming and affordability could help bridge the gap sooner than anticipated. Unlike traditional platforms, Freely operates solely via broadband, simplifying the setup process for users.
The platform boasts various features such as live TV pausing, personalized recommendations, and a comprehensive TV guide, including mini and backwards guides for convenient navigation. Initially limited to select TV models, Freely is now compatible with a wide range of brands, including Hisense, Panasonic, Bush, and Sharp.
For those keen on embracing the streaming trend, a streaming puck named Pleio has been introduced to bring Freely to nearly any TV. Additional set-top devices are expected to hit the market soon, potentially expanding Freely’s market share even further.