The UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, has revealed the connected TV platforms that will be mandated to prioritize public service broadcaster (PSB) content. This follows a consultation on the Television Selection Services (TSS) and considers platforms with over 700,000 active users in the past year. Ofcom's statement explains, “We consider that setting a threshold at this level will ensure that public service content is widely available taking into account the trends in audience viewing.”
The designation will apply to specific versions of these platforms available in July 2025 and any subsequent versions. The 14 designated TSS include: Amazon Fire TV OS; Android TV; Apple TV OS; Google TV; LG WebOS; Roku OS; Samsung Smart Hub (Tizen); Sky Entertainment OS; Sky Q; VIDAA OS; Virgin Media Horizon; Virgin Media TiVo on V6 devices; YouView on EE TV (Sagemcom devices); and YouView on Sony devices.
Following a final report to the Secretary of State, regulations will be implemented. Prominent placement will be given to PSB players, likely including BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 stream, 5, STV player, and S4C Clic.