Quick Summary
Freely has added 11 new free-to-air channels to its streaming lineup.
They all come from the UK's 5 network and include some 24/7 channels not available on Freeview.
Freely is one of the UK's biggest streaming success stories, with more than two million Brits now using the free service on their TVs. And now they have access to even more live content, as an additional 11 UK TV channels have been added.
That means, no matter whether you receive the free streaming service through a TV with it baked in or via a separate device, such as the Netgem Pleio or Manhattan Aero, you can now access new channels filled with documentaries, kids shows, movies and more. All at no extra cost.
All the new stations come from the UK's 5 network – the operator of the 5 terrestrial channel. They include 5Movies, 5Crime, Milkshake!, and 5History.
True crime lovers might also like to tune into 5Cops and 5Police Interceptors.
Here's the new channel list in full:
Channel # |
ID |
|---|---|
69 |
5Cops |
70 |
5Police Interceptors |
77 |
5Movies |
84 |
5A&E |
85 |
5Crime |
107 |
5Medical |
108 |
5Yorkshire Vet |
118 |
5Bargain-Loving Brits |
119 |
5Trucking Hell |
128 |
5History |
360 |
Milkshake! |
Some of the dedicated channels, including Milkshake! and 5Movies, are not available on Freeview – they are only available through 5's own streaming app as well.
What is Freely and how do I get it?
Freely is a free alternative to Sky Stream / Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. It provides live FAST (Free Ad-supported Streaming TV) channels streamed over the internet rather than via traditional broadcast means.
Backed by all of the UK's major broadcasters – the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, 5 and the U network – it gives you access to the country's main TV channels and a lot more besides. While not quite as comprehensive as Freeview at present, it is getting there. And you get exclusive channels besides.
Streaming is undoubtedly the future for British TV, with persistent talk of a new digital switchover in the next decade. That means you will only need an internet connection, rather than aerial or satellite dish, to receive live TV.
Freely also offers catch-up services via each of its main channels, which can be activated by clicking on the programming information in the electronic programme guide. This will launch the show in the respective streaming app, such as BBC iPlayer or ITVX.
Numerous TVs from multiple manufacturers already have Freely built in, and as previously mentioned, there are separate streaming devices that can also give you Freely access on an existing television.
