Freeview New Zealand has announced that it is moving towards a nationwide DVB-I production launch.
DVB-I (Digital Video Broadcasting - Internet) is an open standard that enables linear television services to be delivered over the internet, offering a traditional experience on any connected device. It bridges broadcast (terrestrial/satellite/cable) and broadband (IP), organising streaming channels into a unified, reliable, and standardised service list just like traditional TV.
In a statement released at DVB World 2026, Freeview said it has been preparing for a world where IP-based delivery of linear TV is commonplace, working in close collaboration with consumer electronics manufacturers, alongside broadcasters and the wider DVB community.
"Freeview is synonymous with free-to-air linear television in New Zealand, as the national platform aggregating local programming in a unified channels list that reflect New Zealand communities and voices. Today, it reaches audiences nationwide through digital terrestrial and satellite transmission, as well as the Freeview Streaming TV app."
The company also said in the statement, "Over the past two years, Freeview NZ has been preparing for a world where IP delivery of linear TV is commonplace. Our goal is to ensure free-to-air TV remains easy to find and universally available as viewing evolves, while preserving the simple, familiar, local TV experience audiences value. Through close collaboration with consumer electronics manufacturers leading this innovation such as TCL and Hisense, alongside broadcasters and the wider DVB community, Freeview New Zealand has progressed well beyond a proof of concept and is now moving toward a nationwide DVB-I production launch, ultimately simplifying and futureproofing free-to-air TV in New Zealand."
There was no date announcement.
