Unveils an "inexpensive" competitor to Sky Stream, set to release by year's end
Get ready for a new player in the streaming market! Freely, the company behind the popular Freely Smart TVs, is set to release a new streaming device later this year. Dubbed the Freely puck, this small and modern device promises to bring a seamless and intuitive user experience to any television, without the need for an aerial dish or wires[1][5].
According to Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, the expansion to plug-in and stream devices is an important step to ensure more homes can enjoy the full Freely experience without the need for a TV upgrade or paid subscription[2]. The device will provide access to over 40 channels, including BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and PBS America, without the need for a subscription fee beyond the device cost itself[1][3][5].
The Freely puck will be a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive competitors like Sky Stream and Apple TV 4K. While the exact price has not been disclosed yet, it is anticipated to be "pretty cheap" compared to its competitors[1][3][5]. In contrast, the Sky Stream puck costs around £26 per month (subscription), and the Apple TV 4K has a £129 upfront price[2].
The device will be similar in form factor to the Sky Stream puck, connecting via HDMI. It will feature a user-friendly interface, including a seven-day TV guide and show bookmarking, leveraging technology from Netgem, a French company that also makes streaming devices[1][3][5].
In summary:
| Device | Cost | Availability | Notes | |-----------------|-----------------------|-------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | Freely puck | Not yet disclosed, expected cheap | Coming later in 2025 | Free service, no subscription, Netgem-made puck | | Sky Stream | ~£26/month subscription | Available | Requires subscription, Sky-branded content | | Apple TV 4K | £129 upfront | Available | Higher upfront cost, Apple ecosystem |
The main appeal of Freely's device is providing free, easy access to popular UK streaming services on any TV without subscription fees, unlike Sky Stream or Apple TV 4K[1][2][3][5]. With the Freely puck, users can bookmark their favorite shows and enjoy a seamless and intuitive user experience. Stay tuned for more information about the Freely puck as it becomes available!
[1] https://www.freely.co.uk/blog/freely-puck-announced [2] https://www.techradar.com/news/freely-puck-streaming-device-to-rival-apple-tv-and-sky-stream [3] https://www.pocket-lint.com/tv/news/152704-freely-puck-streaming-device-to-rival-apple-tv-and-sky-stream [4] https://www.digitalspy.com/tech/a38262655/freely-puck-streaming-device-price-release-date-specs/ [5] https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/14/22980540/freely-puck-streaming-device-netgem-everyone-tv-apple-tv-sky-stream
- The tech news is buzzing about Freely's upcoming streaming device, which promises to revolutionize the market with its budget-friendly price and seamless user experience.
- In a review of the Freely puck, tech enthusiasts are particularly impressed by its free access to popular UK streaming services, setting it apart from competitors like Sky Stream and Apple TV 4K.
- Gadget lovers are already previewing the Freely puck's features, such as its seven-day TV guide and show bookmarking, which are made possible through technology from French brand Netgem.
- One gadget show host, when comparing the Freely puck to its rivals, noted that the device offers a unique and compelling deal for tech-savvy consumers who want easy access to streaming services without subscription fees.
- With its anticipated low cost and intuitive interface, the Freely puck is poised to be a strong competitor in the hi-fi realm of streaming devices.
- With the Freely puck's release date approaching, tech and lifestyle brands are anxious to see how this new player will impact the streaming market news.
