Freely Spotlight Channels: Enhancing Discovery and Monetization Opportunities for CTV OS Partners
Freely, a free streaming service launched in 2024 by U.K. broadcasters BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Paramount’s 5, is introducing Freely Spotlight Channels to offer more monetization opportunities for connected TV operating system (CTV OS) partners through the Freely TV Guide. Everyone TV, formerly known as Digital U.K., the entity behind Freely, announced the addition of these new channels, which will be available on channel 31 and channels 90–99 on Freely-enabled devices, providing a total of 11 potential channels. V, the company behind the VIDAA OS smart TV operating system powering Hisense TVs, is the launch partner for Freely, bringing a curated selection of channels to the Freely TV Guide. The new channels aim to drive discovery, viewing, and advertising revenues from free-to-air streaming channels while offering viewers more choices.
According to Freely, the introduction of the Freely Spotlight Channels presents an exciting opportunity to enhance discovery, viewing, and advertising revenues for free-to-air streaming channels. It also provides a new way for CTV OS partners to monetize viewing through advertising and channel promotion while ensuring that British audiences can easily find trusted content. Everyone TV's chief commercial officer, Deep Halder, emphasized the platform's commitment to delivering long-term value across the ecosystem by enabling CTV OS partners to participate in defined parts of the TV guide. V's co-founder and CEO, Guy Edri, highlighted the strategic importance of the U.K. market and the partnership with Freely, stating that Spotlight Channels will bring more high-quality streaming content directly to viewers through the Freely TV Guide.
Freely has seen significant growth, surpassing 1 million weekly users during Christmas week, with continued growth into the first quarter. The service is forecasted to become the largest TV device platform in the U.K. by 2030. In addition to the Spotlight Channels, Freely has introduced a Showcase Channel on channel 100, offering viewers a series of short how-to, feature, and informational videos. Freely is integrated into new smart TVs and plug-in and stream devices, providing access to live and on-demand shows from major U.K. broadcasters in one convenient location, without the need for a dish, aerial, or monthly subscription.
In conclusion, Freely's introduction of the Freely Spotlight Channels and Showcase Channel aims to enhance the viewing experience for users by offering more content choices and opportunities for CTV OS partners to monetize their channels. The platform's commitment to providing free, trusted TV content to British audiences remains a core value, ensuring that viewers can easily discover and enjoy a variety of programming through the Freely TV Guide.