Millions of households in the UK are already utilizing the internet for live and on-demand content viewing. A recent study, sponsored by Sky, indicates that nearly all homes could have access to internet-based television by the mid-2030s, leading to the potential retirement of traditional terrestrial TV distribution methods like Freeview.
Various options already exist for watching TV without requiring an aerial, such as Sky’s latest streaming services and the newly launched Freely platform, which is affiliated with the team behind Freeview. Freely is integrated into many new televisions, providing access to both live and on-demand programs through a broadband connection.
As more internet-connected devices enter households, a shift away from traditional broadcast TV is evident, with an increasing number of people turning to streaming services.
Another challenge facing Freeview is the potential need to share radio frequencies with mobile operators in the UK after 2031, potentially making the current over-the-air transmission system even less sustainable. The upkeep costs of the aging system are also mounting, prompting discussions within the UK government about future strategies.
Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the symbiotic relationship between modern TV and social inclusion, stating that transitioning entirely to internet-delivered TV by the 2030s is feasible and could help bridge the digital divide. He emphasized the importance of government investment in skills and affordable connectivity for households still reliant on legacy systems.
While some individuals may embrace the shift to streaming, others are apprehensive. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered over 100,000 signatures, with concerns raised about the potential requirement for costly fixed broadband contracts to access TV programs if terrestrial signals are phased out.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, expressed her concerns about losing access to Freeview, emphasizing its importance for entertainment, news, and learning. She highlighted her preference for traditional TV viewing over navigating apps and encountering technical issues with online streaming services.
Stay tuned for further updates on the future of television broadcasting.