Freeview Play Set for October Launch

LONDON: The new U.K. connected TV service Freeview Play is set to launch in October, coming first to Panasonic televisions.

From Digital UK and Freeview, Freeview Play combines catch-up TV from the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, on-demand services and live television. The service is free from subscription and works with all existing broadband services.

Panasonic TVs will be the first to introduce the Freeview Play service. In the run-up to the October launch, existing compatible televisions will update automatically. Freeview Play will launch on Panasonic’s new 2015 line of VIERA TVs. Viewers will be able to scroll back through the TV guide for programs on catch-up or access on-demand programming through the apps page.

Following the TV launch, Panasonic will be introducing a full range of video products equipped with Freeview Play, including three Blu-ray recorders and two digital recorders. In addition, Humax will launch Freeview Play digital recorders. Manhattan TV and Vestel will also launch ranges of Freeview Play products, and other major TV manufacturers are expected to follow.

Guy North, the managing director of Freeview, said: "We believe that Freeview Play is set to become the new normal way of watching TV. Viewers will be free to choose what they watch and when they watch it on their main set free from subscription."

Caroline Thomson, the chair of Digital UK, commented: "The launch of Freeview Play is a landmark moment for U.K. television. Our aim is to make watching the best free broadcast and catch-up TV easy for everyone. It’s testament to the work of Ilse Howling, Guy North and their teams, as well as the many partners across our industry, that we are bringing Freeview Play to market with a service that makes watching your favorite TV so simple."

Andrew Denham, the managing director of Panasonic UK, said: "By teaming up with Freeview Play, we are bringing better television to homes across the U.K. Our partnership means that we can not only provide outstanding picture quality, but a much wider selection of programs and viewing flexibility to Panasonic customers in the U.K."