Television viewing habits have evolved significantly in recent years, transitioning from traditional channel surfing to an era of on-demand streaming via the internet. This shift also extends to accessing terrestrial channels through online platforms like Freely, eliminating the need for conventional aerial connections.
Freely offers popular channels such as BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5 over the internet, enabling viewers to stream content seamlessly by connecting their TVs to home Wi-Fi networks. As a TV reviewer and technology expert, I made the switch to Freely TV by opting for the affordable Hisense E6N model, a decision I have not regretted.
Priced at £249 on Amazon, the Hisense E6N boasts a 50-inch 4K Dolby Vision screen, providing access to terrestrial channels and popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube. The significant price drop from its launch in 2024 makes it a cost-effective choice for consumers seeking high-quality viewing experiences.
The convenience of Freely means that TVs can now be placed anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection, eliminating the hassle of traditional aerial setups. Whether it’s for a kitchen or bedroom, users can simply connect to Wi-Fi and enjoy a wide range of content effortlessly.
Hisense, known for its innovative TV technology, offers a diverse range of models catering to various budget preferences. The brand’s TVs, including the Hisense E6N, are designed to deliver immersive viewing experiences, with features like Freely TV support and advanced display technologies like OLED and Mini-LED.
Apart from Hisense, Freely is also available on select Amazon Fire TV models, such as the Fire TV Omni QLED, and on budget-friendly models utilizing the TiVo platform. The 50-inch 4K model ensures optimal viewing quality with detailed resolution, supporting various content formats like Blu-ray discs and streaming services.
With support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+, the Hisense E6N delivers vibrant colors and enhanced HDR highlights, enhancing the visual experience across different content platforms. The TV’s VIDAA platform offers seamless navigation through a wide range of streaming apps, complemented by Alexa integration for voice-controlled operations.
For users preferring traditional Freeview channels, the Hisense E6N includes a built-in tuner, while Freely offers an alternative for accessing essential broadcast channels via Wi-Fi. However, it’s important to note that like standard aerial TV, the reliability of Freely can be impacted by adverse weather conditions.
In May, Freely addressed signal issues related to inclement weather, emphasizing the importance of user awareness and maintenance of service reliability.