Freeview Play, the new internet connected version of the UK’s biggest free to air (FTA) TV platform, now accounts for more than half of all Smart HD TV sales, according to research firm GfK.
Launched two years ago, Freeview Play offers TV fans an easy way of accessing catch-up services such as BBC iPlayer and All4 alongside standard Freeview channels.
GfK says 55% of Smart HD TVs sold in June were Freeview Play enabled and Freeview claims more than 1.5 million Play devices have been sold in total, a figure which would put it significantly behind rival platform YouView which is in around 2.8million homes.
However, while YouView offers the same mix of FTA channels and catch-up apps, most of its market share is driven by TalkTalk and BT’s use of the platform to deliver their pay-TV services.
Guy North, Managing Director, Freeview said, “Freeview Play is fast becoming the smart choice for UK consumers.
“I’d like to thank all our partners who have helped us reach this milestone. It’s a remarkable achievement.”