Freeview Australia has announced it will begin testing new DVB-I technology locally, that will deliver a combined free-to-air TV experience with or without an aerial , ensuring Australians can continue to access and enjoy their free-to-air television now and into the future.
Starting early 2026, Freeview will test a new way to deliver the existing linear channel suites of ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, and Ten over the internet – meaning Australians can navigate their live free-to-air channels through Freeview in the same familiar way, whether they’re watching with or without an antenna, providing even more choice and access for viewers nationally.
With a wide variety of TVs and technical capabilities in market, limited access to aerial connections in modern multi-dwelling unit blocks compounded with an increasing amount of content being consumed online, currently viewers need to jump between different apps and operating systems to find their favourite free and trusted channels. This new frictionless approach brings all the free-to-air channels together in one familiar TV guide – just like Freeview works currently but delivered over internet connection.
“Our goal is simple: ensure every Australian can easily find and watch their favourite free TV channels, whether their TV has an antenna or not. No more juggling apps or inputs. Everything in one place, for free,” Freeview Australia’s GM Dean Dezius said.
Viewers will still see the same Freeview interface they know – the familiar channel numbers, program guide, and navigation. The difference is it will work on internet-connected smart TVs without requiring an antenna connection.
The testing program will run at the Freeview Test Centre in Sydney with smart TVs and active support from TCL, Hisense, and Philips, working with technology partner Switch Media.
Broadcasters around the world are taking similar steps to ensure free television remains easy to find as viewing habits change. In the UK, the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 launched their ‘Freely’ service in 2024, bringing live channels together over the internet. Similar initiatives are underway across Europe and in New Zealand.
“This is about protecting what makes Australian television special – trusted, free content that’s easy for everyone to access. As technology evolves, we’re making sure free TV evolves with it,” Dezius added.
“The strength of Freeview has always been our ability to act collectively on behalf of Australian viewers. This testing program demonstrates that spirit of collaboration as we ensure free-to-air television remains accessible and prominent regardless of how Australians choose to watch. Freeview’s shareholders are united in the view that maintaining a broadcaster-led presence in the IP environment is strategically essential,” Freeview Board’s chairman Hamish Turner said.
“For the ABC, ensuring universal access to public broadcasting is fundamental to our charter. This technology Freeview will test provides a pathway to reach any Australian household with an internet-connected TV, regardless of antenna availability or geographic location. This validation program demonstrates the industry’s commitment to maintaining free, accessible television for all Australians as technology evolves,” Freeview board member and ABC’s chief digital officer Damian Cronan added.
