Imagine never having to deal with bulky satellite dishes or antennas again, while unlocking a world of seamless entertainment right in your living room – but what if this innovation stirs up debates about the future of free TV? That's exactly what Netgem has introduced with their latest creation, the PLEIO streaming puck, designed to provide an all-encompassing entertainment hub without the need for traditional broadcasting setups. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just another streaming device; it's a game-changer for how we access public service content in a digital age.
Netgem, a key player in TV and entertainment platforms, has officially rolled out this compact gadget, which builds on an earlier teaser from the U.K.'s Freely live streaming service back in the summer. That initial announcement came in response to a report from the U.K.'s broadcast watchdog, Ofcom, urging clearer strategies to improve the delivery of public service media amid the boom in streaming services. At the time, details about Netgem's device were scarce, but now the company has provided a full breakdown of this groundbreaking product, offering enthusiasts a deeper dive into its features.
The PLEIO stands out as the first external streaming device to fully integrate with Freely, the U.K. streaming service. For beginners wondering what a 'streaming puck' is, think of it as a small, puck-shaped gadget – like a hockey puck – that plugs into your TV to enhance its capabilities without replacing it. This one's circular, sleek black design measures just 64mm in diameter and 14mm in height, making it incredibly portable – though I wouldn't suggest testing its durability on an actual ice rink!
Despite its tiny size, the PLEIO packs in impressive connectivity: it includes an HDMI 2.1 port for high-quality video output, a USB 2.0 port for additional peripherals, and support for advanced wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 for faster internet speeds and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connections to accessories. This setup ensures smooth performance, even in busy home networks.
At its heart, the PLEIO runs on the Android TV 14 platform, which brings a familiar suite of popular streaming apps right to your fingertips. Imagine having instant access to giants like Netflix for binge-worthy dramas, Disney+ for family-friendly adventures, Prime Video for a mix of hits, Apple TV for exclusive originals, YouTube for endless user-generated content, Paramount+ for blockbuster movies, Discovery+ for documentaries, and NowTV for live sports and shows. But here's where it gets controversial: the real standout feature is its native support for Freely, a service not typically found on standard Android or Google TVs. Is this a clever way to democratize free TV, or does it risk sidelining traditional broadcasters? Let's explore.
For those new to the concept, Freely is essentially a complimentary live streaming alternative to the U.K.'s Freeview HD broadcast service. Instead of requiring an antenna or satellite dish on your home, it delivers the majority of Freeview channels through your broadband connection. This means you can enjoy everything from BBC dramas to Channel 4 comedies without ever worrying about signal issues or installation hassles. Plus, it boasts over 75,000 hours of on-demand content, and as I've covered in my Forbes articles, Freely continually expands its lineup by partnering with additional providers beyond the core ones like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5. For example, if you're a fan of niche cooking shows or international documentaries, Freely often adds channels that cater to those interests, making it a growing treasure trove of varied programming.
MORE FOR YOU
The true impact of the Netgem PLEIO on the media world lies in its ability to extend Freely's reach to viewers who don't own a TV with built-in Freely support – which, up until now, has been limited to select models from brands like Hisense, Bush, Panasonic, Sharp, Toshiba, and JVC. Simply connect the puck to any available HDMI input on your TV, and boom – you're instantly immersed in everything Freely offers. The remote control even has a dedicated Freely button for one-click access, simplifying the experience for beginners who might otherwise find navigating multiple apps daunting.
The £99 retail bundle comes equipped with the PLEIO puck itself, a wireless joystick for gaming, and a voice-enabled remote control, along with a three-month trial of the Netgem PLEIO subscription. Even if your TV already has many of these streaming apps pre-installed, using the PLEIO as your central hub means you can consolidate all your entertainment in one place, avoiding the hassle of switching inputs. To make things even easier, it includes its own voice search feature – just press the mic button on the remote and say what you're looking for, like 'show me action movies' or 'find cooking tutorials.'
In terms of visuals and audio, the PLEIO delivers stunning 4K video with HDR10 high dynamic range for richer colors and contrasts, and it supports Dolby Atmos sound for immersive audio that makes you feel like you're right in the action – perfect for blockbuster scenes or live concerts.
But wait, there's more: Netgem is excited to highlight the PLEIO's gaming prowess. With the included wireless joystick, you can stream and play over 250 console-quality games through a dedicated subscription (note that this gaming access is separate from the Freely service, so you don't need it for basic streaming). This could appeal to casual gamers who want to try titles without buying expensive hardware. For instance, imagine streaming a racing game or an adventure title directly to your TV screen, all while enjoying the same channels and on-demand content.
You can purchase the Netgem PLEIO right away in a couple of options. The standalone package costs £99 and includes the puck, voice remote, gamepad, and a three-month trial of the PLEIO subscription, available from retailers like Amazon UK, the Freely website, and Netgem's site. This subscription grants access to those 250-plus cloud-based games, plus over 150 curated additional channels spanning sports highlights, in-depth documentaries, and even cooking competitions. After the trial ends, it's £9.99 per month to continue. Alternatively, it's bundled with internet service providers (ISPs) like WightFibre, Connect Fibre, and BRSK for just £9.99 a month, eliminating the upfront cost and giving you full access to all platform content – a potential bargain for those already tied to an ISP.
—
Related Reading
Freely Streaming Service Expands To Non-TV Devices For The First Time
Freely TV Streaming Platform Adds 10 New Channels
Freely Streaming Service Signs Up Two More Major TV Brands
As we wrap up, the PLEIO raises intriguing questions: Could this device truly bridge the gap between free broadcast TV and premium streaming, or might it complicate viewers' choices by blending subscriptions with 'free' content? Do you see it as an affordable innovation for budget-conscious households, or just another way for tech companies to monetize what was once ad-supported TV? On a controversial note, some might argue that integrating gaming into a media device dilutes the focus on public service broadcasting – what do you think? Will this encourage more people to cut the cord entirely, or create confusion in an already crowded market? Share your opinions, agreements, or disagreements in the comments – I'd love to hear your take!
