The new Freely PLEIO device from Netgem is one of the most exciting arrivals in the UK streaming landscape this year, offering a modern and affordable way to upgrade almost any TV. Priced at just £99, this compact puck delivers the full Freely live-TV experience, access to major streaming apps, cloud gaming, and a clean interface powered by Android TV 14.

The main attraction is Freely — the internet-based replacement for traditional Freeview. With Freely built into the PLEIO, viewers can access more than 55 live channels, including all the core UK broadcasters, without needing an aerial. Everything is delivered via broadband, and the on-screen guide feels familiar, making the transition from aerial-based TV incredibly simple. The best part: Freely itself remains completely free, with no subscription required.

Despite its small size, the PLEIO packs impressive hardware. It supports 4K streaming, HDR10, Dolby Atmos passthrough, and uses Wi-Fi 6 for fast, stable connections. There’s no wired Ethernet option and no aerial input, so users will rely entirely on Wi-Fi, but for most modern households, that’s not a deal-breaker. The device’s tiny footprint allows it to tuck neatly behind the TV, keeping your setup clean and uncluttered.

Because it runs Android TV 14, the PLEIO also gives you full access to the Google Play Store. Whether you prefer Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, or countless other apps, they’re all just a download away. It feels more like a premium streaming box than its price might suggest.

Netgem also adds its own extra layer: cloud gaming. Each device includes a Bluetooth controller and access to over 250 online games through the optional PLEIO Membership. The device comes with a free three-month trial, after which the membership costs £9.99 per month. Those who only want the core Freely experience can ignore the subscription entirely.

The PLEIO isn’t perfect — there’s no Dolby Vision, no Ethernet, and some users have noted that Freely’s interface and search functions can feel fragmented at times.

But overall, it represents a major step toward a fully broadband-based TV future. For anyone wanting to modernise their viewing setup without buying a brand-new TV, the PLEIO is an affordable and forward-thinking option.

Use Outside of the UK

Obviously for users outside the UK, the Freely PLEIO device will have to be used in conjunction with a VPN or Smart DNS service, to hide the fact you are trying to access UK only online content from outside the UK. We shall be testing one of these units as soon as we can get one!