Freely Streaming Service Surpasses 1 Million Weekly Users in UK Milestone
The free streaming platform Freely, which positions itself as a direct competitor to paid services like Sky and Virgin Media, has achieved a significant milestone by reaching 1 million weekly users in December last year. This growth highlights a shifting trend among UK viewers who are increasingly opting for cost-effective alternatives to traditional television subscriptions.
CEO Highlights Demand for Integrated British TV Streaming
Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, commented on this achievement, stating, "Surpassing one million weekly users is an exciting milestone for Freely, signalling that there is audience demand for a simple way to stream live British TV and discover great on-demand shows – all in one place." He further noted that Freely was the largest growing TV platform in 2025, attributing its success to the collaboration of UK public service broadcasters.
Affordable TV Options Under £100 with Freely Integration
In contrast to premium options like the Sky Glass TV, which can be pricey, Freely offers a much more budget-friendly approach to upgrading one's television setup. Consumers only need a stable internet connection, a compatible Freely TV, and a valid TV licence to access the service.
One standout deal is the 24-inch Bush Smart HD Ready TV, available at Argos for under £100. This model integrates Freely directly, eliminating the need for additional apps or boxes. Key features include:
- HDR10 support for enhanced brightness and vivid display quality.
- Access to major streaming apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and Channel 5.
- Positive user reviews, with many praising its value for money and ease of setup.
However, it's important to note that this TV has a limited app selection and does not include an App Store, which may affect users looking for specific services like Apple TV.
Alternative Options and Market Response
For those willing to spend a bit more, the 40-inch Hisense TV on Amazon offers improved picture quality with direct-lit LED technology, though it comes at a higher price of around £159. This model provides better HDR performance but may be less sleek in design due to its lighting setup.
The surge in Freely's popularity coincides with increased viewership on channels like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5, all available through the platform. This trend underscores a growing preference for free, integrated streaming solutions that combine live and on-demand content without subscription fees.
As the streaming landscape evolves, Freely's milestone and affordable hardware options present a compelling choice for UK households seeking to cut costs while enjoying a wide range of television content.
