Streaming has solidified its position as the future of television, with Sky investing significantly in this cutting-edge technology. Products like Sky Glass and the Sky Stream box have gained immense popularity in the UK due to their user-friendly nature – simply connect to Wi-Fi to access a wide range of shows, sports, and movies without the hassle of installations. While Sky remains a dominant player with its extensive channel lineup and features, there are now other convenient options for TV viewing.
Introducing Freely, a new alternative that allows households to enjoy live and on-demand TV without requiring an aerial or a monthly subscription, setting it apart from Sky. Until recently, Freely was only integrated into the latest TVs from brands such as Hisense, Panasonic, and Sharp, leaving users with older sets or models from Samsung and LG without access.
Fortunately, a new device, the PLEIO Puck, has been launched to address this gap in the market. Created by the team at Netgem, this compact box provides full Freely access to any TV by simply plugging it into an HDMI port and connecting it to broadband.
Once set up, the PLEIO Puck offers over 40 free channels for live and on-demand viewing through the Freely platform. Additionally, the Puck supports popular streaming apps like Disney+ and Netflix, over 200 games, and features full voice control for a comprehensive entertainment experience.
Available for purchase at £99, the PLEIO Puck package includes the device, a voice remote, a gamepad controller, and a three-month trial of the Netgem PLEIO subscription, offering access to 250+ cloud games and 150+ extra channels. Following the trial period, the subscription is optional at £9.99 per month.
Sylvain Thevenot, the Managing Director of Netgem UK, expressed enthusiasm about the product’s launch, highlighting the platform’s simplicity and comprehensive features tailored for broadband-connected homes. The launch of PLEIO signifies a new era in consumer entertainment options and presents an excellent opportunity for operators to deliver value and choice to consumers.
Industry analyst Paolo Pescatore emphasized the timeliness of a device like PLEIO, noting consumers’ increasing demand for affordable content viewing options. He cautioned against rising subscription costs, driven partly by broadcasters paying more for sports rights, which may lead viewers towards convoluted and illegal streaming avenues.