Millions of households in the UK are currently utilizing the internet for live and on-demand viewing, with a potential shift looming for more Britons. A recent study, requested by Sky, indicates that nearly all homes could have access to internet-based TV by the mid-2030s, leading to the phasing out of traditional terrestrial TV distribution channels like Freeview.
Various alternatives to aerial-based TV viewing already exist, including Sky’s latest streaming services and Freely, a service owned by the creators of Freeview. Freely is now integrated into many new televisions, offering viewers access to both live and on-demand programming through a broadband connection.
As the number of internet-connected devices in households increases, fewer individuals are relying on traditional broadcast television and are instead turning to streaming services.
A concern for Freeview’s future is the potential sharing of its radio frequencies with mobile operators in the UK after 2031. This sharing arrangement could further diminish the viability of the current over-the-air transmission system.
The expenses associated with maintaining the aging TV distribution system are escalating, prompting active discussions within the UK government about future strategies.
Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the alignment of modern TV and social inclusivity. He stated that transitioning entirely to internet-based TV in the 2030s could help bridge the digital gap rather than widen it, especially with the majority already embracing streaming. Investing in skills and affordable connectivity for the few remaining households requiring assistance to access online content could yield extensive benefits, while also saving substantial costs on legacy system maintenance.
Despite some welcoming the shift to streaming, not everyone is on board. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered over 100,000 signatures, with many expressing concerns about the potential challenges of transitioning to a system reliant on internet connectivity for TV viewing.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, is among those disheartened by the proposed changes. She emphasized the importance of Free Terrestrial TV for entertainment, news consumption, and learning opportunities, expressing her reluctance to switch to streaming services due to unfamiliarity and technical issues experienced with online platforms.
Further updates on the future of TV are anticipated in the near future.