Netgem Introduces Freely to Older TVs through Upgraded PLEIO Streaming Device

Netgem has introduced a new and improved version of the PLEIO streaming puck, tailored for the UK market. The updated PLEIO device no longer includes a TV tuner, but now includes the Freely service, which is supported by major UK broadcasters like the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, and U. This new streaming device is designed to offer a comprehensive all-in-one solution for live TV, streaming apps, and cloud gaming.

With Freely integrated into PLEIO, users can enjoy access to over 50 live channels and a wide range of on-demand content over Wi-Fi. In addition, the device provides more than 150 extra IP channels covering various genres like sports, movies, kids’ programming, documentaries, and music. Users can also explore a library of over 250 cloud games handpicked by Netgem.

Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV, expressed excitement about the opportunity to bring Freely to households that currently do not have access to the service, allowing them to stream free TV on their existing TV sets. PLEIO features Netgem’s unified user interface, combining live channels, streaming services, and gaming into a single intuitive interface. Users can easily search for content across Freely and popular apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. Additionally, access to the Google Play Store enables users to add more services like NOW, Disney+, and Apple TV.

Mathias Hautefort, CEO of Netgem Group, highlighted that PLEIO offers a complete “Watch, Stream, and Play” experience for homes with fiber connectivity, presenting a fresh approach for operators striving to offer both variety and value. The compact PLEIO Puck comes with a voice-enabled remote and a wireless gamepad in the box. Initially available for purchase on Amazon in the UK for £99, the device includes three months of free access to PLEIO Extra, which features an extended selection of channels and cloud games.

Netgem is also pitching PLEIO as a valuable tool for internet service providers (ISPs). The platform will be offered as part of fiber broadband packages through ISPs using Netgem’s white-label model, which includes marketing support, sales training, customer assistance, and operations. ISP customers will receive ongoing free access to the PLEIO Extra package.

Netgem’s motivation for launching PLEIO stems from the increasing fragmentation in the TV and streaming market, where viewers spend significant time searching for content. Research suggests that users spend approximately 30 minutes each day deciding what to watch. By emphasizing free content, aggregation, and easy content discovery, PLEIO aims to appeal to budget-conscious households and younger viewers who enjoy a mix of traditional TV and online platforms.

Aside from TV and streaming, Netgem sees cloud gaming as a way to appeal to households without gaming consoles. Popular titles like Nickelodeon Kart Racers, The Smurfs, Overcooked 2, Hot Wheels Unleashed, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, and Gear Club 2 are highlighted as part of PLEIO’s gaming offerings.