In a world first, Freeview has launched a new free mobile app, Freeview FV, allowing Australian viewers to watch livestreaming of 16 TV channels and catch-up content from all free-to-air networks on the go.
Livestreaming channels available at launch include: ABC, SBS, Seven, Channel 9, TEN, ONE, ABC2/ABC KIDS, ABC ME, ABC News 24, 7TWO, 7Mate, 7Flix, Racing.com, 9Gem, 9Go! and 9Life.
More live channels will be added as they become available.
Consumers will have links to access catch-up content from all the free-to-air networks including SBS On Demand, ABC iview, PLUS7, 9Now and tenplay.
Developed by Freeview, the new Freeview FV app is available on iOS iPhone, iPad, and Android phones. In addition to live streaming and catch-up, the simple-to-use Freeview FV app offers other great features including:
• browse and search all free-to-air programs
• a free-to-air TV guide
• favourites and reminders functions
• recommendations
Freeview CEO Liz Ross said the app was groundbreaking for TV viewing and gave people more choice and convenience than ever before.
“This is a fantastic new way for consumers to enjoy TV on their terms and never miss a thing, especially when they’re on the go and away from home.
“The Australian FTA industry has united to create and deliver a powerful mobile consumer experience – in no other market has an FTA industry collaborated to create its own live streaming app,” said Ross.
Ross said Freeview anticipated strong pickup, particularly among commuters, and believed the app will have a positive effect on summer TV viewing and beyond as it meets consumer expectations of convenience.
Freeview FV is a very exciting step forward for the FTA industry as it continues to evolve and retain its position as a global leader in innovation,” said Ross.
For live sport, Freeview FV mirrors the network’s sporting rights agreements.
The mobile app can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play. Freeview FV will also be able to mirror to Apple TV using AirPlay.
The launch of the app will be supported by a dedicated TV campaign featuring the Freemans family, transit advertising, digital and social media.
The mobile app will be measured and reported through OzTAM VPM.