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Millions of TV users across the country will be able to enjoy 12 new TV channels soon that are not available on Freeview.
The new channels will launch on Freely, the broadband-based TV platform developed by Everyone TV.
The channels are part of UKTV’s expanding suite of Free Ad-supported Streaming TV (FAST) channels.
FAST channels operate like traditional TV channels with scheduled programming and advert breaks, but are delivered via the internet rather than through an aerial or satellite dish.
What are the 12 new channels launching on Freely?
Eight of the channels will be dedicated to a single BBC favourite.
They are:
- Antiques Roadshow on U
- Bargain Hunt on U
- Casualty on U
- DIY SOS on U
- EastEnders on U
- Gardeners’ World on U
- Holby City on U
- Top Gear on U
Between them, the channels will feature hundreds of episodes.
UKTV, owned by the BBC, is the broadcaster behind U&Dave and U&DRAMA.
Four existing UKTV FAST channels - U&Laughs, U&Transport, U&Real Heroes, and U&The Past - will also join Freely and LG Channels.
These channels are already available to Virgin Media customers and will bring the total number of UKTV FAST channels on Freely to 12.
UKTV said the channels will begin rolling out before the end of the year and hasn’t given an exact date or said whether all 12 will arrive at once.
UKTV is also in talks with other platforms, suggesting the channels could become more widely available in the future.
What is Freely?
Freely, which launched in April 2024 on new smart TVs, is now also accessible through standalone boxes such as Netgem Pleio and Manhattan Aero, as well as on Vodafone TV.
Everyone TV reported that Freely surpassed two million monthly users in July, underlining the growing appeal of streaming-based free TV.
Other broadcasters have already introduced similar single-show FAST channels.
ITV offers The Chase and Saturday Night Every Night, while Channel 5 launched 11 themed channels in July, including 5Police Interceptors and 5Yorkshire Vet.
Channel 4 added three streaming-only channels—4Reality, 4Homes, and 4Life—in September 2025.
How to get Freely in Samsung, LG or Sony TVs
Freely comes built into new smart TVs from major brands including Hisense, Panasonic, Toshiba, Bush, TCL, JVC, Philips, and Sharp.
However, it can still be accessed on Samsung, LG or Sony TV sets.
To get Freely on these models, you'll need one of Freely's streaming devices.
There are two dedicated streaming devices currently available, the Netgem PLEIO and the Manhattan Aero.
The Netgem PLEIO is a 4K puck that integrates Freely alongside streaming apps and optional cloud gaming
The Manhattan Aero is a compact 4K box that combines Freely with popular apps, with TiVo OS built-in.
How to retune your TV for Freely
If your TV or Streaming Device is only connected via Wi-Fi, all you need to do is keep Freely up to date to have access to the newest channels.
Freely should update automatically as new updates come out.
If you need to update manually, click on the Settings menu gear icon on your TV Guide and select Software Updates to check for the latest software.
If you’ve chosen include channels via an aerial, you may need to rescan your TV to watch all the channels.
Most TVs will ask you to rescan for channel updates whenever there are changes to the channel lineup, so simply press rescan.
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If your TV doesn't ask you to do this, you may need to manually start the rescan.
This process may vary slightly depending on the TV you have, but it usually involves these steps:
- Visit Settings menu
- Select Channel or similar
- Select Auto Scan and follow the on-screen instructions
You can also check your manufacturer's manual for instructions relating to your specific TV.
Do you watch Freely? Let us know in the comments.