Millions of households in the UK are currently utilizing the internet for live and on-demand viewing, and it appears that more Britons may soon join in. A recent study, sponsored by Sky, indicates that nearly all homes could have access to internet-based TV by the mid-2030s, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial TV distribution methods like Freeview.
Various alternatives already exist for watching TV without the need for an aerial, including 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 new televisions, offering viewers the ability to access live and on-demand content through a broadband connection.
The rise of internet-connected devices in households has led to a decline in traditional broadcast TV viewership, with more households turning to streaming services for their entertainment needs.
A looming challenge for Freeview is the potential sharing of its radio frequencies with mobile operators in the UK after 2031. This could further diminish the feasibility of the current over-the-air transmission system. Additionally, the costs associated with maintaining the aging infrastructure are escalating, prompting discussions within the UK government regarding future steps.
Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, commented on the latest findings, emphasizing the potential of internet-delivered TV to promote social inclusion and bridge the digital divide. He highlighted the feasibility of transitioning fully to internet-based TV by the 2030s, which could yield substantial benefits beyond television while reducing costs linked to legacy systems.
While some individuals may welcome the shift towards streaming services, not everyone is enthusiastic. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered over 100,000 signatures, with concerns raised about the potential inconvenience for many who rely on Freeview. The petition expresses worries about the necessity of expensive broadband contracts for households to continue accessing their favorite TV programs.
One dissatisfied individual affected by the proposed changes is Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, who values the accessibility of Free Terrestrial TV for entertainment, news, and education purposes. Lynette expressed her reluctance towards adopting new apps and accounts, preferring the simplicity of traditional TV viewing over online streaming services.
Stay tuned for further updates on the evolving landscape of television broadcasting.