Key Highlights
- Freely launches a standalone device offering 150 extra channels and on-demand content for free.
- The service does away with the need for an aerial, relying solely on internet connection.
- A dedicated controller is included for cloud gaming of over 250 titles.
- Pleio, a plug-in device, is now available to those who wish to keep their existing TV.
New Free Entertainment Option Challenges Sky’s Dominance
The tech industry has witnessed yet another disruptive player entering the market with Freely, a standalone “box” that promises an extensive array of channels and on-demand content for free. This launch is set to challenge traditional players like Sky, who have been innovating in the digital TV space through their internet-enabled alternatives such as Sky Glass and Sky Stream.
Breaking Down the Offer
Priced at £99, the Pleio device acts much like an Amazon Fire Stick but with a broader range of mainstream channels. Unlike its competitors, Freely does away with the need for an aerial, instead relying on broadband internet to provide access to hundreds of channels and on-demand content. This new device is particularly exciting as it allows users who have existing TVs to continue using their current hardware while enjoying premium entertainment options.
A Game-Changing Feature: Cloud Gaming
One of the standout features of Pleio is its gaming capability, which comes with a dedicated controller for over 250 titles. This feature not only adds an element of fun but also positions Freely as more than just a traditional TV service. Users can pause live channels and start programmes from the beginning at the click of a button, enhancing user experience significantly.
Industry Reaction and Future Implications
Sylvain Thevenot, managing director of Netgem UK, which is behind Pleio, expressed excitement about their product strategy. “PLEIO delivers a truly comprehensive viewing experience – Watch, Stream, and Play – that is ready for any Fibre broadband-connected home today,” he said. This launch could signal a shift in how consumers perceive traditional pay-TV services, pushing them to consider free alternatives with robust features.
With Freely now available as both an integrated option for new TVs and through the Pleio device for existing users, it’s clear that this is not just a fleeting trend but a significant move by tech companies looking to capture a larger share of the entertainment market. As more consumers turn towards internet-based services, traditional TV providers will need to adapt or risk losing ground.
For now, Freely stands as an innovative solution for those who have long been frustrated with the cost and limitations of pay-TV services. The launch marks another step in the digital transformation of entertainment, offering a viable alternative that could redefine how we consume content at home.
