Key Highlights
- Freely launches a standalone device with 150 extra channels and on-demand content.
- The new device comes as a free alternative to Sky’s internet-enabled TV services.
- Pleio, the Pleio device, is available for purchase from Amazon and selected providers.
- Freely offers cloud gaming with over 250 titles through a dedicated game controller.
New Free Streaming Service Challenges Sky’s Dominance in UK Market
The tech landscape in the United Kingdom is poised for an exciting shift as Freely, a standalone streaming device, hits the market. This innovative service promises to revolutionize how consumers watch TV and stream content without the need for a costly subscription or even a new television set.
A Free Alternative with 150 Extra Channels
Freely’s launch marks a significant move in the UK’s media ecosystem, offering viewers access to an impressive array of channels and on-demand content at no cost. The device, known as Pleio, is designed for users who want to keep their existing television without the hassle or expense of upgrading to a Sky-enabled smart TV.
Unlike traditional streaming services that often require subscriptions and can be costly, Freely aims to provide an all-in-one solution with access to over 150 channels. These include mainstream networks like BBC, ITV, and Channel 4, alongside a wide range of on-demand shows and movies available for instant playback.
Cloud Gaming and Dedicated Controller
A standout feature of the Pleio device is its capability for cloud gaming. With over 250 titles accessible through a dedicated game controller, users can enjoy immersive gaming experiences without needing to purchase expensive consoles or games. This feature sets Freely apart from other streaming services by providing an all-encompassing entertainment package that caters to both traditional TV viewers and gamers.
According to Sylvain Thevenot, managing director of Netgem UK, the company behind Pleio, “We built PLEIO as the answer to the fragmentation of the entertainment market. It delivers a truly comprehensive viewing experience – Watch, Stream, and Play – that is ready for any Fibre broadband-connected home today.” This statement underscores Freely’s commitment to providing users with multiple entertainment options under one roof.
Compatibility and Availability
The Pleio device can be purchased from Amazon and selected providers like WightFibre, Connect Fibre, and BRSK. At a retail price of £99, it offers good value for those looking to enhance their home entertainment without breaking the bank. The device is compatible with any fibre broadband-connected TV or monitor, making it versatile and user-friendly.
Freely’s launch also comes as an alternative to Sky’s internet-enabled TV services, such as Sky Glass and Sky Stream.
These services require users to have a new smart TV or set-top box, which can be costly. Freely, on the other hand, allows users to keep their existing television while still enjoying modern streaming capabilities.
Freely has been available in built-in TVs since April 2024, but with the introduction of Pleio, it’s now more accessible to a broader audience. This move by Freely signals a significant shift in how consumers approach home entertainment and could potentially disrupt the existing market dominated by Sky.
As Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor, notes, “If you’re tired of paying out on several streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, there are growing free alternatives around. Freely’s launch represents a compelling option for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality content.” This observation highlights the competitive landscape in which Freely operates and the potential impact it could have on traditional service providers.
