UKTV Expands Partnership With Samsung

UKTV has signed a fresh agreement with Samsung that, for the first time, brings UKTV’s free-to-air linear channels to internet-only Samsung TV households in the UK, while continuing to keep U content prominent for Samsung viewers.

The move is a core element of UKTV’s Connected TV strategy as audiences migrate from traditional broadcast to digital platforms.

The partnership secures a dedicated rail for U on Samsung's home screen. It also enables UK-based Samsung TV owners to watch UKTV's free linear channels over the internet without needing an aerial. Later this year, U&DRAMA, U&Dave, U&YESTERDAY, U&W and U&eden will be accessible to Samsung TV users via a deep link from Samsung’s Universal Guide straight into the U app.

Coverage extends across millions of Samsung TVs, with additional placement in the 'Live' tab and the Universal Guide to ensure UKTV's channels and on-demand programming remain easy to find for IP-only viewers.

Alongside continued investment in the free U streaming app, the launch of UKTV's linear channels on Freely, the recently announced distribution of the U service on Channel 4 streaming, and long-term pay-TV partnerships with Sky and Virgin Media, this deal helps safeguard discoverability and engagement as viewing habits evolve.

Jonathan Newman, General Manager, Commercial, UKTV and BBC Studios UK/Ireland, said: "This new deal builds on our already fruitful and wide-ranging partnership with Samsung. It will make the U app even more accessible to Samsung’s customers and ensure UKTV’s rich mix of content remains highly visible across VOD and linear."

Dan Harvie, VP of Home Entertainment and Appliances at Samsung UK and Ireland, said: "UKTV is a key part of the vast range of entertainment that is included within a Samsung TV. We are always aiming to help our customers enjoy the very best possible entertainment experience and with UKTV we are delivering access to a whole host of different broadcast content.

"As the world's number one TV brand for 20 consecutive years, Samsung is committed to delivering innovation that enhances every aspect of the viewing experience. This collaboration reaffirms our dedication to providing our customers with the ultimate entertainment ecosystem, including the rich content offerings of UKTV to the likes of Samsung TV Plus and our built-in broadcast app access."

The agreement is one of several collaborations between UKTV and Samsung, spanning Connected TV, FAST channels and advertising, to boost reach and engagement across UKTV's portfolio.