Freeview Australia has announced it will begin testing latest DVB-I technology locally, that will ensure Australians can continue to access and enjoy their free-to-air television now and into the future.
DVB-I is an internationally recognised open standard that enables the delivery of broadcast television services over the internet using the same familiar channel numbering, electronic programme guides, and viewing experience that viewers know from traditional digital terrestrial television (DTT). DVB-I provides a consistent, broadcaster-led framework for accessing an aggregated free-to-air channels service across IP-enabled devices.
Starting early 2026, Freeview will test this new way to deliver the existing linear channel suites of ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, and Ten over the internet.
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, viewers currently need to jump between different apps and operating systems. This new frictionless approach brings all the free-to-air channels together in one familiar Freeview TV guide, but delivered over an 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,” said Dean Dezius, General Manager of Freeview Australia. “No more juggling apps or inputs. Everything in one place, for free.”
Viewers will still see the same Freeview interface as used today – the familiar channel numbers, programme guide, and easy navigation. The difference is it will work on internet-connected smart TVs without requiring an antenna connection.
The testing programme 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.
“This is about protecting what makes Australian television special – trusted, free content that’s easy for everyone to access,” added Dezius. “As technology evolves, we’re making sure free TV evolves with it.”
Hamish Turner, Chairman of the Freeview Board, said: “The strength of Freeview has always been our ability to act collectively on behalf of Australian viewers. This testing programme 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.”
Damian Cronan, Chief Digital Officer at ABC and Freeview board member, 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 programme demonstrates the industry’s commitment to maintaining free, accessible television for all Australians as technology evolves”.
The world’s first demonstrations of DVB-I services took place at IBC 2019, Amsterdam. Since then, trials have been undertaken in Italy, Ireland, Iran, Germany and Spain.
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.
Visit https://www.freeview.com.au
