A new way to enjoy television without monthly fees has recently become more accessible to households. First introduced in 2024, Freely initially provided live channel access through specific new TVs. However, in the last 18 months, the availability of Freely has expanded to include TVs from manufacturers such as Hisense, Toshiba, and Sharp. Until now, individuals seeking to utilize the platform for live and on-demand content had to purchase a new television from a tech retailer.
Fortunately, a breakthrough has occurred with Manhattan’s technology team unveiling a new Freely-powered set-top box named Aero 4K, enabling the service on existing TVs in homes. The Aero 4K device offers free access to over 60 live channels and on-demand content without the requirement of a costly subscription.
Moreover, the Aero 4K box features voice search, personalized viewing recommendations, a comprehensive TV guide, and the capability to pause live programming. Users with subscriptions to services like Disney+ and Netflix can also access these applications through the box.
Priced at £69.99, the Aero 4K has gained significant popularity. Currys, the first retailer in the UK to offer the Manhattan Aero 4K, quickly sold out of the device. However, the product is expected to be restocked soon according to a confirmation from Currys to Mirror Online.
Interested buyers can sign up on Currys’ website to receive alerts when the Aero 4K is available again. Additionally, it is anticipated that other retailers such as Amazon and John Lewis will start selling the device shortly.
Once back in stock, the Aero 4K will compete with devices like Virgin’s Stream box and Sky Stream, which eliminate the need for aerials or dishes by streaming shows, sports, and movies over the internet instead.
Transitioning to streaming services offers benefits such as easier installation without requiring a professional visit and more frequent software updates.
The television landscape is evolving rapidly, with Freely recently announcing a user base exceeding a million. This number is expected to rise as more individuals abandon traditional viewing methods in favor of streaming options.