Freeview UK adds on-demand content to its linear TV guide

Freeview brings on-demand to the live TV experience with revamp of Channel 100

Freeview has today launched its on-demand content showcase on Channel 100 for Freeview Play viewers. This is the first time the UK’s largest TV platform has integrated on-demand content into the linear TV guide.

The specially curated recommendations allow viewers to browse suggestions from BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, Demand 5 and UKTV Play with more content to be added as additional broadcasters join Freeview Play. Viewers will also be able to find their favourite shows via a universal search feature and through the help and alerts section find out how to get the most from Freeview Play.

Research conducted by Freeview shows that the linear TV guide is still the most popular way viewers find and access shows. By placing on-demand content within the linear TV experience, Freeview is making it even easier for viewers to find their favourite shows and discover new ones. Freeview Play is now supported by 20 leading brands including Panasonic, LG, and Sony, making it the most widely adopted on-demand platform by manufacturers. Over 3 million Freeview Play devices have been sold since launch.

Guy North, Managing Director, Freeview said: “This launch symbolises our commitment to a hybrid platform, bringing live TV and on-demand content even closer together. Viewers simply want quick and easy access to the best TV content on offer, and that’s what this showcase feature will bring them.”

As with all Freeview products, this new service available on Freeview Play products is subscription free and works with all broadband providers.

Technical development of Freeview Play, including product specification, is being led by Digital UK.

* Freeview Play Sony and Philips TVs will receive the update later this year.