Freely, a relatively new player in the UK streaming market, has quickly gained traction since its launch in 2024. Recently, the platform hit a significant milestone by surpassing one million weekly users, posing a challenge to established services like Freeview, Sky, and Virgin. This surge in user numbers, which occurred during the festive Christmas period, demonstrates rapid growth, with a doubling of users compared to September of the previous year.
The achievement of over one million weekly users has positioned Freely as the fastest-growing TV platform in the UK for 2025. Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, expressed enthusiasm about this milestone, highlighting the demand for a convenient platform offering live British TV streaming and on-demand content in one place. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of UK public service broadcasters in delivering high-quality British TV content easily accessible through Freely.
While Freely still trails behind larger platforms like Sky and Freeview in terms of scale, the increasing trend towards streaming and cost-effective alternatives may expedite its growth. Unlike traditional aerial-based platforms, Freely operates solely over broadband connections, simplifying the setup process for users.
Offering various features such as live TV pausing, personalized recommendations, and a comprehensive TV guide, Freely caters to diverse viewing preferences. Initially compatible with a limited range of TVs, the platform is now accessible on a broader selection of models from renowned brands like Hisense, Panasonic, Bush, and Sharp.
Furthermore, the introduction of Pleio, a streaming puck device enabling Freely access on nearly any TV, expands the platform’s reach. Future plans include the launch of additional set-top devices, which could further enhance Freely’s market share in the coming months.