UKTV expands availability to internet-only Samsung TVs

UKTV, part of BBC Studios, has reached a new agreement with Samsung Electronics to make its free-to-air channels accessible to Samsung TV users in the UK who rely solely on internet connectivity.

Under the deal, Samsung TV owners will be able to watch UKTV’s linear channels online without requiring a traditional aerial connection. The broadcaster’s content will also receive a dedicated placement on the Samsung TV home screen, helping viewers discover programmes more easily as viewing habits continue to shift toward connected platforms.

Later this year, channels including U&Dave, U&DRAMA, U&YESTERDAY, U&W and U&eden will become accessible through Samsung’s interface via a deep link from the Universal Guide to the U. The integration will also appear within Samsung’s Live TV section, further increasing visibility for UKTV content.

The agreement forms part of UKTV’s broader connected-TV strategy, which includes investment in its streaming app U, the launch of its channels on the Freely service and distribution partnerships with platforms such as Sky and Virgin Media. Together, these initiatives aim to ensure that UKTV’s programming remains widely accessible across both broadcast and digital environments.