Millions of households in the UK are already utilizing the internet for live and on-demand content consumption. According to a recent study commissioned by Sky, nearly all homes could have access to internet-based TV by the mid-2030s, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial distribution methods like Freeview.
Various alternatives to aerial-based TV viewing are already available, such as Sky’s latest streaming services and the Freely platform, which is managed by the creators of Freeview. Freely, integrated into many new televisions, offers both live and on-demand programming through an internet connection.
With the increasing prevalence of internet-connected devices in households, a shift away from traditional broadcast TV towards streaming services is evident. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the future of Freeview, particularly in relation to sharing radio frequencies with mobile operators post-2031, potentially impacting the current over-the-air transmission setup.
The rising costs associated with maintaining the existing TV distribution infrastructure have prompted discussions within the UK government regarding future strategies. Nick Herm, Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the potential benefits of transitioning to internet-based TV in the 2030s, emphasizing its role in promoting social inclusion and bridging the digital divide.
While some individuals welcome the transition to streaming platforms, others are apprehensive. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered significant support, with concerns raised about the affordability and accessibility of internet-based TV compared to traditional terrestrial broadcasts.
Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, expressed her reliance on Free Terrestrial TV for entertainment and information, emphasizing the simplicity and familiarity of traditional TV viewing compared to online alternatives.
Updates on the future of television delivery methods are anticipated in the near future.