Samsung TV owners in the UK are set to receive a significant free upgrade, offering a plethora of bonus content to enjoy. UKTV has confirmed that its popular free-to-air linear channels will soon be accessible on Samsung screens, allowing UK viewers to watch without the need for additional devices for the first time.
The channels will be streamed over the internet, eliminating the requirement for a traditional aerial setup. Samsung will also introduce a dedicated rail on its home screen to showcase content from the U streaming service, making it easier for viewers to discover and watch classic comedies, dramas, and factual shows without navigating through menus or settings.
In the upcoming months, channels like U&DRAMA, U&Dave, U&YESTERDAY, U&W, and U&eden will be accessible through a direct link from Samsung’s Universal Guide to the U app.
Samsung anticipates that millions of its TVs will receive the rollout, with the channels being featured in the platform’s ‘Live’ tab and Universal Guide. This move aims to ensure that UKTV’s live and on-demand content remains prominently available for viewers who solely rely on internet-based TV services.
Jonathan Newman, General Manager of Commercial at UKTV and BBC Studios UK and Ireland, expressed that the agreement with Samsung enhances their existing partnership, making the U app more accessible to Samsung customers and ensuring the visibility of UKTV’s diverse content across video-on-demand and live channels.
Dan Harvie, Vice President of Home Entertainment and Appliances at Samsung UK and Ireland, highlighted the significant role of UKTV in enriching the entertainment offerings on Samsung TVs. He mentioned that Samsung is dedicated to providing customers with an enhanced entertainment experience by partnering with UKTV to offer a wide range of broadcast content.
As the leading TV brand globally for 20 consecutive years, Samsung remains committed to enhancing the viewing experience through innovative partnerships like this one, combining UKTV’s content with services such as Samsung TV Plus and integrated broadcast app access.
Although an official launch date has not been disclosed, these new features are expected to roll out on Samsung TVs soon.