TV
You'll need the following equipment to enjoy Freeview:
1. A Freeview TV, box or recorder
If you bought your TV after 2010, it will already have Freeview built into it. All you need to do is connect to a working aerial to watch live TV.
If you have a Freeview Play TV, you can enjoy HD channels. And if you want to be able to pause, rewind and record live TV, you can upgrade to a Freeview play or Freeview Play recorder – visit our Freeview products page to see the range available.
And if you opt for a Freeview Play device you can get the benefits of live TV and access to catch-up and on-demand content all in one place.
2. An aerial
To get Freeview, you need an aerial in good condition, pointing in the right direction towards a transmitter. While indoor (loft or portable) aerials may pick up Freeview, for best results we recommend a roof aerial.
If you need more information or want to check your aerial is working properly, read our aerial troubleshooting guide first. If you still need advice, we recommend that you get in touch with a qualified aerial installer, as they will understand the circumstances and local geography in your area and suggest the best option for you.
Visit the following websites to find one local to you:
- GetMeViewing.org.uk - Confederation of Aerial Industries
- GetMeDigital.com - Registered Digital Installers
Remember, it's always a good idea to get more than one quote.
3. A TV licence
Everyone who watches broadcast TV in the UK must have an annual TV licence, whatever TV service you use. In certain circumstances, you may be eligible for a free licence or a concession, but the vast majority of us have to pay for it – check on the TV Licensing website.
Once you've paid your TV licence, though, with Freeview you don't need to pay anything else on top.
4. An internet connection
If you only want to watch digital terrestrial Freeview TV channels then you won't need an internet connection. But if you have a Freeview Play device and want to access catch-up and on-demand content, then you'll need an internet connection of at least 2Mpbs.
APP
To get the Freeview mobile app you need an Android phone or tablet running Android OS 4.4 KitKat and above, or an iPhone or iPad running iOS 11 and above.
What else do I need?
You'll need a minimum internet connection of 2Mbps and all the associated channel apps – which are BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5 and UKTV Play.
Don't forget that you'll also need a TV licence. Once you've paid for it, though, with Freeview you don't need to pay anything else on top. For more information visit tvlicensing.co.uk.