Unveiled without warning on October 21, the Free TV platform has provoked anger among broadcasters TF1 and France Télévisions. In a joint statement, the two companies denounced the initiative as "brutal and unilateral" and called on the authorities to address what they consider a direct attack on the sector's stability.
An offensive without consultation which raises many concerns
Free TV, the new streaming service launched by the French operator Free, offers free access, even for non-subscribers, to more than 170 channels, films, and catch-up programs. Presented as “the largest free TV offering in France,” it competes with platforms like Molotov and Canal+'s TV+. However, this initiative, which relies partially on content from TF1 and France Télévisions channels, was rolled out without prior agreement from the groups concerned.
In their press release published Monday, October 27, TF1 and France Télévisions denounced a launch carried out without discussion or compensation, believing that Free “is appropriating their services without seeking to guarantee their fair valuation or monetization.” They describe an operation carried out without regard for creators, rights holders, and commercial partners. The two groups are asking Arcom (the audiovisual regulator) and the public authorities to closely examine this initiative, which they believe could “destabilize an entire ecosystem.”
Historic broadcasters defend their platforms and their economic model
Faced with this offensive by Free, TF1 and France Télévisions are reiterating their own efforts to adapt to new digital uses. Both are investing in their respective platforms, TF1+ and France.tv, with the aim of offering a quality experience, controlled from an editorial, advertising, and technical perspective. In a difficult economic climate for French audiovisual, they believe that Free TV could compromise their development strategy as well as the financing of creative work.
While public channels are included in the free version of Free TV, those from the TF1 group are only available through the paid subscription, offered at 0,99 euros per month for the first year, then 5,99 euros. This package provides access to more than 300 channels, including paid channels such as RTL9, National Geographic, and Disney Channel.
Free TV replaces the OQEE app launched in 2020, and is now included in Freebox offers with television or certain mobile plans. But in the face of criticism, the operator led by Xavier Niel will probably have to explain in more detail the conditions for exploiting third-party content.
