Millions of households in the UK are already utilizing the internet for live and on-demand content consumption. A recent study, sponsored by Sky, indicates that by the mid-2030s, nearly all homes could have access to internet-based TV services, potentially leading to the retirement of traditional terrestrial distribution methods like Freeview.
Various alternatives to aerial-based TV viewing already exist, such as Sky’s latest streaming offerings and the recently launched Freely service, which shares ownership with Freeview. Freely is now integrated into many new television sets, providing users with access to both live and on-demand programming through a broadband connection.
As more internet-connected devices make their way into households, the trend of shifting away from traditional broadcast television towards streaming services is becoming more prominent.
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 hinder the current over-the-air transmission system’s viability.
The expenses associated with maintaining the aging terrestrial TV infrastructure are escalating, prompting active discussions within the UK government regarding future strategies.
Sky’s Group Chief Operating Officer, Nick Herm, highlighted the compatibility of modern TV services with social inclusivity. He emphasized the feasibility of transitioning to internet-based TV fully in the 2030s and how it could contribute to bridging the digital divide while also saving substantial costs on legacy system maintenance.
Despite the growing popularity of streaming, not everyone is in favor of this shift. A petition opposing the discontinuation of Freeview has garnered 100,000 signatures, with concerns raised about the potential difficulties some individuals might face in accessing TV content without traditional aerial-based services. The petition warns of the possibility of households being compelled to subscribe to expensive fixed broadband contracts for continued TV access if terrestrial signals are phased out in favor of internet-based TV in the future.
One dissatisfied individual affected by the proposed changes is Lynette, an 80-year-old resident of Kent, who views Free Terrestrial TV as an essential source of entertainment, news, and knowledge.
Updates on the evolving landscape of TV services are expected to be announced soon.