The free app will provide viewers with the chance to watch on-demand content and live stream channels BBC, ITV and Channel 4 on mobile devices.

On-demand services BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5 and UKTV Play will allow audiences to catch up on their favourite shows on the go, with a ‘Recommendations’ feature to help users discover new programmes.

The collaboration between the PSBs, Digital UK and Arqiva, who led the software build and development of the app, will be a significant technical step for the platform, as it marks the first time viewers will be able to watch live Freeview content without using an aerial.  

"In an increasingly fragmented media landscape, the new Freeview mobile app is an excellent example of broadcaster and industry collaboration in action,” said Jonathan Thompson, CEO, Digital UK. “Today's viewers value having access to their favourite shows when and where they want and the new app provides the aggregated experience that consumers increasingly expect from a TV provider.”

He added, “We’re putting the best of free-to-air content – public service and commercial - in to one place on mobile just as we have on TV, ensuring that great free tv is available to everyone wherever they are”.

The launch was announced at Freeview’s annual Outside the Box event at BAFTA.

The iOS app will be available to download on 22nd January 2019, and an Android version will launch in early 2019.