Freeview and Sony have announced the successful roll out of Freeview Play on selected Sony BRAVIA TV models. The subscription-free catch-up and on-demand platform provides access to BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, Demand 5 and UKTV Play.

Viewers with compatible Sony TVs will now be able to scroll back from the TV guide to access shows from the past seven days. Through the Search function, they can find their favourite shows or discover new ones using Freeview Play’s Recommendations feature. The hybrid platform provides viewers with 70 digital and 15 HD channels, all for no monthly cost.

The announcement marks a tipping point for Freeview Play, as three out of the four leading manufacturers now support the platform. Sony joins Panasonic, LG and 18 other brands who are integrating Freeview Play in to their TVs and set-top boxes. The subscription-free platform, developed with the backing of the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 offers viewers access to catch-up TV and on-demand services from those broadcasters as well as Channel 5 and UKTV.

Guy North, Freeview Managing Director said, “I’m delighted to welcome Sony on board. Freeview Play represents a big opportunity for TV manufacturers as a growing number of people who currently pay for their TV package look for a smarter, more flexible choice. The current smart TV marketplace is a confusing place for consumers – we aim to make it simple. Freeview Play devices guarantee you access to your favourite broadcast channels and the most popular catch up players free from subscription.”

“Sony BRAVIA televisions create a fantastic home entertainment experience and by adding Freeview Play we are providing even greater choice for our customers to enjoy a wide range of content,” said John Anderson, Country Head, Sony UK and Ireland.

Technical development of Freeview Play, including product specification, is being led by Digital UK.

Categories: Articles, Catch Up, Connected TV, FTA, VOD