Freely, a relatively new player in the UK streaming scene, is making significant strides in the industry. Launched in 2024, the service has recently hit a major milestone by surpassing one million weekly users, marking a notable achievement during the festive Christmas period. This growth trend indicates a rapid increase, with a doubling of user numbers since last September.
The achievement now positions Freely as the fastest-growing TV platform in the UK in 2025. Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, expressed enthusiasm about this milestone, emphasizing the clear demand for a convenient platform offering live British TV streaming and a variety of on-demand content in one place.
Thompson highlighted the collaborative efforts of UK public service broadcasters in making top-notch British TV easily accessible through Freely. The platform’s success in 2025 demonstrates the commitment to showcasing the nation’s favorite channels and stories in the era of streaming.
While Freely still has ground to cover to compete with giants like Sky and Freeview, the ongoing shift towards streaming and away from pricey subscriptions could expedite its growth trajectory.
Freely, operated by the team behind Freeview, distinguishes itself by operating solely through a broadband connection, ensuring quick and uncomplicated setup. The platform boasts various features such as live TV pausing, personalized recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, a mini guide, and a unique backwards guide enabling viewers to rewind through schedules.
Initially accessible on a limited range of TVs, Freely has expanded its compatibility to include models from popular brands like Hisense, Panasonic, Bush, and Sharp. The recent introduction of the Pleio streaming puck allows Freely to be accessed on nearly any TV, with more set-top devices anticipated to enter the market soon, potentially further solidifying Freely’s market presence.