Many households in the UK are already utilizing the internet to access live and on-demand content, and it appears that a larger number of Brits may soon need to do the same. A recent study, sponsored by Sky, indicates that nearly all households could have the option of internet-delivered TV by the mid-2030s, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial TV distribution methods like Freeview.
Currently, there are numerous alternatives to watching TV without requiring an aerial, such as Sky’s latest streaming services and the newly introduced Freely platform, which is affiliated with the team behind Freeview. Freely is now integrated into many new televisions, offering viewers access to both live and on-demand programming via a broadband connection.
As more internet-connected devices enter households, fewer individuals are relying on traditional broadcast TV, with a growing number turning to streaming services instead.
Another challenge facing Freeview is the potential sharing of its radio frequencies with mobile operators in the UK after 2031. This could further diminish the feasibility of the current over-the-air transmission system.
The expenses associated with maintaining the aging TV system are increasing, prompting active discussions within the UK government regarding future steps.
Nick Herm, the Group Chief Operating Officer at Sky, emphasized the potential benefits of transitioning to internet-delivered TV by the 2030s, highlighting the positive impact on social inclusion and the closure of the digital divide.
While some individuals may welcome the shift towards streaming, not everyone shares the same enthusiasm. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered over 100,000 signatures, with many expressing concerns about the potential difficulties they may face in accessing TV content without it.
The petition warns of the risk of scrapping terrestrial television, also known as Freeview, and emphasizes the necessity of costly fixed broadband contracts for households to continue enjoying their favorite TV programs.
One individual affected by this change is 80-year-old Lynette from Kent, who emphasized the importance of Free Terrestrial TV in her life for entertainment, news, and learning purposes.
Lynette expressed her reluctance towards navigating multiple apps, creating new accounts, and dealing with technical issues commonly encountered during online TV viewing experiences.
Further updates on the future of TV are expected to be revealed in the near future.