UK's Public Service Broadcasters BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 to Launch Free Streaming Service in 2024
Key Highlights :
As the world continues to move towards streaming services, the UK’s most prominent public service broadcasters (PSBs) are joining forces to launch a new free streaming service for TV viewers in 2024. BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 have announced that viewers will soon be able to access their content through a new platform, which will be built into smart TVs and feature a line-up of PSBs and other free-to-air channels.
The new service, which will be operated by Everyone TV (formerly known as Digital UK) will allow viewers to browse channels through a programme guide and use new functions to find shows directly from live TV. This will be a welcome addition for those who have become accustomed to streaming services, and will ensure that the universality of public-service television is sustained into the future.
BBC Director-general Tim Davie said: “Ensuring the universality of public-service television is sustained into the future is of paramount importance to the UK and all its public service broadcasters. We are delighted to be deepening our collaboration in helping viewers access our content, ensuring that, in a digital age, we deliver value for all audiences and that no one is left behind.”
ITV chief executive Dame Carolyn McCall added: "As more and more UK households use internet-connected TVs, it’s critical that the public service broadcaster channels remain available and easy for them to find. This new collaboration enables the UK public to continue to get all of their favourite British TV channels, for free – just as Freeview did at the advent of digital TV.”
Channel 4 chief executive Alex Mahon also commented: “Streaming TV is increasingly the new normal for audiences, particularly young viewers, so it has never been more important for trusted PSB content to be readily available to everyone, for free.”
The new service is expected to launch in 2024 and will be available on smart TVs. It is hoped that this new collaboration between the UK’s public service broadcasters will ensure that viewers are able to access their favourite content for free, and that the universality of public-service television is sustained into the future.
