UK Samsung television owners are set to receive a significant complimentary upgrade providing access to a variety of bonus content. UKTV has confirmed that its popular free-to-air linear channels will soon be accessible on Samsung screens without the need for additional devices for the first time.
The channels will be streamed over the internet, eliminating the requirement for a traditional aerial installation. As part of the agreement, Samsung will introduce a dedicated section on its home screen to showcase content from the U streaming service, making it easier for viewers to discover shows such as classic comedies, dramas, and factual programs without navigating through menus.
In the upcoming months, channels like U&DRAMA, U&Dave, U&Yesterday, U&W, and U&Eden will be directly accessible through Samsung’s Universal Guide via a deep link into the U app.
Samsung anticipates that millions of its TVs will receive the rollout, with the channels prominently featured in the platform’s ‘Live’ tab and Universal Guide, ensuring easy access to UKTV’s live and on-demand content for internet-based TV users.
Jonathan Newman, UKTV’s General Manager of Commercial at BBC Studios UK and Ireland, emphasized the strengthened collaboration with Samsung, enhancing accessibility to the U app for Samsung customers and maintaining visibility of UKTV’s diverse content offerings.
Dan Harvie, Samsung UK and Ireland’s Vice President of Home Entertainment and Appliances, highlighted the crucial role of UKTV in Samsung TVs’ entertainment lineup. He expressed Samsung’s commitment to enhancing the entertainment experience by providing access to a wide range of broadcast content through partnerships like UKTV.
Although the exact launch date has not been disclosed, the new features are expected to roll out on Samsung TVs soon, enhancing the viewing experience for users.