Sky and Freeview upgrades bring new content and free channels to TVs

Sky TV and Freeview update brings more content to homes across the UK (Image: SKY)Bored with your current lineup of channels? Sky and Freeview have both announced changes to their platforms which is boosting the number of shows available for customers across the UK. The update includes a new streaming service along with three extra channels to tune into.First up it’s good news for anyone with Sky Glass, Sky Q or a new Sky Stream box in their living rooms with the satellite TV firm announcing the launch of LIONSGATE+ on these devices.This new streaming service includes a vast library of exclusive and premium content including shows such as the political thriller ‘Gaslit,’ the time travel saga ‘Outlander,’ along with period dramas ‘The Serpent Queen’ and the upcoming ‘Dangerous Liaisons.’ LIONSGATE+ now joins other services such as Netflix and Disney+ on Sky allowing users to watch extra content and binge on boxsets right from the home screen.Customers can simply find the app by saying ‘Open LIONSGATE+’ into their voice remote, or on Sky Glass use far field voice, or simply find it in the apps rail, alongside that range of other brilliant services.If that sounds interesting, LIONSGATE+, costs £5.99.’Partnering with Sky, Europe’s premium content provider, is a key strategy in strengthening LIONSGATE+’s presence in Europe and will give even more subscribers access to our massive offering of curated content’ said Superna Kalle, President, International Networks for Starz. ‘We look forward to strengthening our relationship with viewers through Sky who share our commitment to delivering audiences exceptional content paired with a premium user experience.’So that’s Sky’s upgrade but what about Freeview?The popular free-to-watch provider has just announced the release of three new channels which include Reality Xtra 2 (channel 69), Together TV+1 (channel 92) and Pet Collective (channel 278).All of these services are completely free to watch and offer entertainment such as Comfort Food with the Hairy Bikers, George Clark’s Restoration Man, baking with Nadia Hussain and Paradise Gardens with Monty Don.Anyone who loves animals might also fancy watching Pet Collective. This channel, which is broadcast via Freeplay’s online service, shows clips and content based on everyone’s favourite pets such as dogs and cats.To get these channels Freeview users might need to update their equipment with Freeview saying:”Some broadcasters are making important changes to their channels and three new channels are launching on Freeview. You will need to retune to update your TV and keep your channels and TV Guide up to date.” Sadly, although three new channels are launching, there are also a trio of services that will be disappearing from Freeview.These include Now 80’s, Now 90’s and Clubland TV