A joint analysis commissioned by the BBC and Everyone TV estimates that closing the digital divide could release billions of pounds in economic and social value for the UK
PwC was engaged to apply HM Treasury Magenta Book methodologies in assessing the scale of opportunities associated with a transition to an exclusively online future. The findings suggest that a managed shift to internet-based television (IPTV), when designed to foster digital inclusion, could significantly complement broader government initiatives, such as the DSIT Digital Inclusion Action Plan and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Get Britain Working programme.
PwC findings indicate that achieving full digital inclusion could generate as much as £21.1-£30.8 billion in annual Gross Value Added (GVA) from increased productivity and employment.
Presently, 85% (23 million) of UK households with televisions are connected, enabling some or all of their viewing to occur online – a figure projected to increase to 97% by 2034 if market conditions remain unchanged. Furthermore, nearly one quarter of UK homes (7 million) now exclusively access television via the internet, with a tipping point forecast for 2029, at which time more than 50% of households are expected to follow this trend (3Reasons, Spring 2025).
In May, BBC Director-General Tim Davie outlined strategic options for building trust across UK society, including assurances that, should television shift entirely online, the digital transition would be inclusive for all. The BBC is examining the development of an innovative streaming media device, prioritising accessibility and featuring an intuitive user interface to address the needs of individuals currently underserved by existing digital services.
This initiative is separate from the recently announced Netgem device by Everyone TV’s Freely, which enables older television sets to support Freely without requiring new hardware.
The Freely platform, backed by the public service broadcasters, offers access to their free-to-air channels and streaming services.
Helen Burrows, Controller Digital Transition, said: “An IPTV switchover presents an opportunity, through diligent planning and management, to drive social and economic progress. The BBC stands ready to collaborate with governmental and industry partners to facilitate this transition. However, realising this potential necessitates a government commitment to the switchover and timely support for Ofcom’s request regarding scheduling decisions, ideally by early next year.”
The report identifies three groups at risk of digital exclusion due to lower internet access and usage compared to the general population: unemployed individuals, affected primarily by affordability challenges; people with disabilities, who encounter accessibility and skills barriers; and those over 75, many of whom lack interest or confidence in engaging online.
