Millions of households in the UK are already utilizing the internet to access live and on-demand content, and it appears that more British residents may soon need to do the same. A recent study, conducted by Sky, indicates that by the mid-2030s, nearly all homes could have the option of internet-based television services, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial TV distribution methods like Freeview.
Various alternatives to aerial-based TV viewing already exist, including Sky’s latest streaming platforms and the recently launched Freely service, which is managed by the team behind Freeview. Freely comes pre-installed on many new televisions and grants users access to both live and on-demand programming through a broadband connection.
As the number of internet-connected devices in households continues to rise, a decreasing number of individuals are relying on traditional broadcast TV, with a growing preference for streaming services.
An additional challenge facing Freeview is the potential sharing of its radio frequencies with mobile operators in the UK after 2031. This development could further diminish the feasibility of the current over-the-air transmission system.
The expense associated with maintaining the ageing terrestrial TV system is escalating, prompting discussions within the UK government about future strategies.
Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, commented on the latest findings, emphasizing the compatibility of modern television services with promoting social inclusion. Herm expressed confidence in the feasibility of a complete transition to internet-based TV by the 2030s, highlighting the potential to bridge the digital gap and generate substantial cost savings by phasing out legacy systems through government investment in connectivity and skills development for households still reliant on traditional TV methods.
While some individuals may welcome the shift towards streaming services, not everyone shares the same enthusiasm. A current petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered over 100,000 signatures, with many signatories expressing concerns about the potential challenges in accessing TV content without the existing Freeview infrastructure. Unlike current setups that only require an aerial, streaming services demand a stable and often costly internet connection for optimal performance.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, is among those expressing discontent with the proposed changes, highlighting the importance of Freeview for her entertainment, news consumption, and learning experiences.
Updates on the future of television services are anticipated in the near future.