However, one of the most understated TV services in the UK is that of Freeview, a terrestrial service that offers free TV through the use of an aerial. Freeview allows users to access numerous channels without charge, which makes it an incredibly attractive option. But we know what you’re thinking: “Freeview would be perfect if only it had 4K content!”
Well, does Freeview offer any 4K content? Join us down below to find out!
Does Freeview Have 4K Content?
Unfortunately, there are only a very select few channels in the UK that offer 4K content to viewers. Those channels that do offer 4K content are not available to access via Freeview.
However, fret not, because there is still 4K content to be found on Freeview, just in a very different way, so don’t give up on signing up for the service just yet!
What Is Freeview Play? Does It Have 4K Content?
One way in which you can access 4K content via Freeview is through Freeview Play. Freeview Play is a free service that is actually built into most 4K TVs! If Freeview Play is not currently installed on your 4K TV, try heading to the dedicated app store on your device, and installing the service from there.
Once you are signed into Freeview Play, you will likely be delighted to see the vast array of content that is made available right away, from a range of different UK channels, including BBC, ITV, and Channel 4. Included in this content is an array of 4K content, especially from the BBC. Freeview Player provides you with access to the BBC iPlayer, so make sure to take advantage of the 4K content available there.
Freeview Play is built into many of the best Smart TVs, allowing you to start watching as soon as your new TV is out of the box. All you need is a strong internet connection!
As well as providing access to iPlayer, Freeview will also allow you to access YouTube. YouTube is one of the best resources to depend on when it comes to free 4K content. Content on YouTube is entirely user-curated, so there is something for everyone to find on the platform. Not only that, but YouTube also offers a large amount of 8K videos to browse through.
However, in order to access all of this awesome 4K content on Freeview Play, you will need to make sure that you have a very stable internet connection. 4K content requires a strong connection, of around 40 Mbps, otherwise what should be 4K content will simply look like a mess of pixels.
Do You Need A TV License To Access Freeview?
You might think that, because Freeview and Freeview Play are free to use, you don’t need to purchase a TV Licence. Unfortunately, this is not the case, and we would strongly recommend that you purchase one in order to use Freeview or Freeview Play. You don’t want that awkward moment when TV Licensing agents come knocking at your door.
The reason why you need a TV Licence for Freeview is because it provides you with access to BBC channels, and the BBC iPlayer streaming service. As well as this, Freeview also provides you with access to live television. Using a service that provides access to live TV necessitates the adoption of a TV Licence.
Freeview is totally free to use and helps to provide you with plenty of 4K streaming content. However, you will want to make sure that you have access to a TV Licence.
Is Freeview Worth Using?
Despite requiring a TV Licence, it is still very much worth using Freeview on your 4K TV. The vast majority of 4K TVs in the UK come with immediate access to Freeview, or the Freeview Play platform. If you already have a TV Licence, there is no reason not to sign up for the Freeview service!
TCL 4K TVs in particular come with Freeview Play pre-installed, so it really is as simple as diving right into the app as soon as your TV is hooked up!
Freeview acts as a great all-in-one platform to host all of your favourite TV channels and TV content. You can easily access all of the most popular UK channels, as well as more than 60,000 hours of streaming content all in one place. This makes it highly convenient, whether you access it via a set-top box, or from the built-in Freeview Play app.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Resolution Of Freeview TV?
A Freeview TV set-top box currently has a total output resolution of around 1080i. Freeview boxes are yet to allow 4K content, but the built-in version of Freeview found in most Smart TVs, Freeview Play, does provide access to 4K content, by providing access to platforms like YouTube and BBC iPlayer.
Will The BBC Ever Broadcast In 4K?
Though the BBC does not broadcast all of its TV shows in 4K, there are still a number of programmes that are displayed in the 4K resolution every now and again. Certain live events, such as the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were streamed in 4K, as well as a number of specific episodes of scripted shows.
What BBC Shows Are In 4K?
Though the BBC does not currently have an entire channel dedicated to broadcasting 4K content, there is an array of 4K BBC content that can be watched via BBC iPlayer. One of the very best shows to watch in 4K from BBC iPlayer is the jaw-dropping Blue Planet II, which shows off the world’s nature in all of its detailed beauty.
Do You Need A TV Licence For Netflix?
If you’re planning on watching Netflix on your TV, you can rest assured that you do not need a TV Licence to get streaming. You only need a TV Licence if you plan to access BBC channels, BBC iPlayer, or any other kind of live TV content via your TV.
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