Millions of households in the UK are already utilizing the internet for both live and on-demand content consumption. A recent study, sponsored by Sky, indicates that nearly all residences could have access to internet-based television by the mid-2030s, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial TV distribution, like Freeview.
Various alternatives to aerial-based TV viewing are already available, such as Sky’s latest streaming services and the newly introduced Freely platform, which is managed by the creators of Freeview. Freely is now integrated into many modern televisions, offering viewers the ability to watch live and on-demand programs through a broadband connection.
As more internet-enabled devices enter households, there is a shift away from traditional broadcast TV consumption, with an increasing number of households opting for streaming services.
One challenge facing Freeview is the potential need for its radio frequencies to be shared with mobile operators post-2031, impacting the current over-the-air transmission system.
The expenses associated with maintaining the current TV infrastructure are rising, prompting discussions within the UK government about future strategies.
Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the potential benefits of transitioning to internet-delivered TV by the 2030s, emphasizing the opportunity to bridge the digital gap and reduce costs associated with legacy systems.
While some individuals welcome the shift towards streaming, others are concerned about the implications. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered 100,000 signatures, with many expressing difficulties if forced to rely solely on streaming services, which necessitate a stable and costly internet connection.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, voiced her concerns, emphasizing the importance of Freeview for her daily entertainment and information needs, expressing reluctance towards navigating apps and encountering technical issues with online viewing.
Further updates regarding the future of TV are anticipated to be announced in the near future.
