Freeview

Freeview is the brand name for the United Kingdom’s free-to-air digital terrestrial television service. It provides access to a wide range of television and radio channels without a subscription, delivered over the country’s digital terrestrial network.

Freeview was established in 2002 as a joint venture of the BBC, ITV plc, Channel 4, and Five to replace analogue television with a free digital platform. The service uses digital multiplexing to broadcast a selection of channels within allocated spectrum. The analogue switchover, completed in 2012, marked Freeview as the primary means of receiving most broadcast channels in the UK.

The platform relies on DVB-T for standard-definition channels and DVB-T2 for high-definition services in many areas, with coverage varying by region. Viewers access Freeview through a set-top box or a television with a built-in Freeview tuner, using an aerial connection. Freeview HD provides HD channels where available.

Freeview has evolved to include Freeview Play, an interface that combines live television with on-demand services from major broadcasters via the internet, enabling catch-up and streaming apps on compatible devices. Many Freeview devices also offer PVR features, marketed as Freeview+, Freeview+ HD, or similar, allowing pause and recording of broadcasts.

Freeview is governed by a industry body and operated by a consortium that continues to add channels and streaming features while maintaining a no-subscription model. The service is widely used across the UK and has influenced the adoption of digital broadcasting in the country.