Anyone with a Samsung TV is about to get a blockbuster free upgrade. It’s just been confirmed that UKTV’s free linear channels will become available to Samsung TV viewers in the UK for the first time. This content will all be beamed to screens via the internet, meaning there’s no need for an aerial stuck in the chimney. The new deal also brings a dedicated rail to Samsung’s home screen just for U content.

That means classic comedies, dramas and real-life shows will all be easily available without searching or digging into endless settings.

Later this year U&DRAMA, U&Dave, U&YESTERDAY, U&W and U&eden will also be delivered to Samsung TV viewers via a deep link from Samsung’s Universal Guide into the U app.

Samsung says this coverage will span millions of its TVs and will appear within Samsung’s ‘Live’ tab of the user interface and Universal Guide to ensure UKTV’s channels and on-demand content remain front and centre for IP-only audiences.

“This new deal builds on our already fruitful and wide-ranging partnership with Samsung,” said Jonathan Newman, General Manager, Commercial, UKTV and BBC Studios UK/Ireland.

“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.”

And Dan Harvie, VP of Home Entertainment and Appliances at Samsung UK and Ireland, added: “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 alongside the likes of Samsung TV Plus and our built-in broadcast app access.”

There’s no exact word on a timeline for this launch, but expect to see it arriving on screens soon.

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