Channel 4 has announced three new streaming channels on Freely, marking a first for a UK public service broadcaster.
The new channels, 4Reality, 4Homes and 4Life, will be available exclusively to watch on Freely, the free-to-use streaming service.
A new home for Channel 4 favourites
Each channel brings a curated line-up of content from Channel 4’s library. 4Reality (channel 67) is built around reality staples such as Married at First Sight, Naked Attraction and First Dates. 4Homes (channel 68) is all about property and lifestyle, with favourites like Grand Designs, A Place in the Sun and Location, Location, Location. Meanwhile, 4Life (channel 82) brings together food, travel and animal stories, from The Dog House to Travel Man.
It’s all about bringing back the lean-back feel of traditional TV, but with a streaming twist. Instead of scrolling through endless menus, you can drop straight into themed channels with curated content ready to go.
Why it matters
With audiences shifting from broadcast to streaming, Freely aims to ensure free-to-air channels remain accessible without a dish or aerial. Backed by Everyone TV, the platform integrates live and on-demand shows into one interface on next-gen smart TVs.
Channel 4’s move reinforces its push to become what it calls the world’s “first public service streamer”. It also follows its broader digital-first strategy, designed to future-proof the broadcaster as viewing habits continue to change.
For advertisers, the launch also opens the door to new digital distribution formats while still reaching mainstream UK audiences.
For viewers, the biggest win is variety without cost. Unlike subscription services such as Netflix or Disney+, Freely is entirely free, meaning 4Reality, 4Homes and 4Life could become go-to channels for casual streaming.
If you’re interested in watching all your favourites on a new TV, check out our guide to the best TVs for our recommendations on what to buy and why.
Opinion
Channel 4’s decision to launch exclusive streaming channels on Freely shows how traditional broadcasters are adapting to the streaming era. The curated approach should appeal to audiences overwhelmed by endless on-demand menus. Whether it can draw younger viewers away from TikTok and Netflix is another question, but as a free addition to Freely, it feels like a smart play.
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