Android TV refresh brings Freeview Play to the fore

Android TV’s recently announced UX refresh has now integrated Freeview Play in the UK.

Announced earlier this year, the update makes the smart TV OS look and feel almost identical to that of the Google TV software introduced with 2020’s Chromecast streaming stick. 

The biggest introduction is a Discover tab for finding personalised recommendations based on viewing history and interests, alongside what’s trending on Google. Freeview has announced that this new tab will feature content recommendations from Freeview Play. 

Freeview Play, the OTT component of the FTA DTT operator, offers users access to over 30,000 hours of on demand content from BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5, UKTV Play, CBS Catchup Channels UK, Horror Bites, STV Player, POP Player and BBC Sounds.  Rather than being available as a standalone app, Freeview Play is only available on select smart TVs and DVR devices from companies such as LG, Toshiba and Sony. 

The Android TV interface will show users, from the home screen, recommendations of both live TV and on demand content available on Freeview Play.  

Simon Hunt, director of strategy and business development, for Freeview Play, said:  “It’s so important that British viewers can easily find the content they love, whether it’s catching up on Line of Duty, or bingeing the Friday Night Dinner box set. Working closely with Android TV, we have been able to ensure that the customer journey continues to deliver for UK viewers, and ensures Android TV remains competitive in the British market.”  

Ed Corn, head of Android TV partnerships, EMEA at Android TV said: “People in Britain cherish a helpful and smart TV experience. We are glad that through our work with Freeview Play more UK viewers will profit from an updated Android TV experience that makes it easy for them to find and watch their favourite shows.”