Freely, a relatively new player in the UK streaming scene, has quickly gained traction since its launch in 2024. Recent reports reveal that Freely has now exceeded one million weekly users, a significant achievement that positions it as a formidable competitor to established platforms like Freeview, Sky, and Virgin.

This surge in users occurred during the festive Christmas period and signifies a remarkable growth rate, with the number of Freely users doubling since last September. As a result, Freely has emerged as the fastest-growing TV platform in the UK for the year 2025.

Jonathan Thompson, the CEO of Everyone TV, expressed enthusiasm about surpassing the one million user mark, attributing it to the demand for a convenient platform offering live British TV streaming and a diverse range of on-demand shows. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of UK’s public service broadcasters in making quality British content easily accessible through Freely.

While Freely still has ground to cover in matching the scale of industry giants like Sky and Freeview, the increasing trend towards streaming services and the shift away from costly subscriptions could accelerate its growth beyond expectations.

Distinguished from Freeview by its broadband-based operation, Freely boasts user-friendly features such as live TV pause, personalized recommendations, and a comprehensive TV guide. Initially compatible with select TV models, Freely has expanded its reach to include a wide array of brands like Hisense, Panasonic, Bush, and Sharp.

Furthermore, the introduction of Pleio, a streaming puck enabling Freely access on almost any TV, signifies a new era for the platform. Anticipated launches of additional set-top devices in the near future could further bolster Freely’s market presence and appeal to a broader audience.