TVs across Britain are about to get an 'exciting' update, which includes more content to watch for free. The changes are all thanks to Channel 5 shaking up its platform by bringing both its linear and My5 online services under one roof.  The re-launch, which is simply called 5, even promises to offer 15 extra channels which will all be available to view on platforms such a Sky, Virgin Media, Freeview and the new Freely option which supplies content to the big screen using the web rather than an aerial.

Those with streaming devices like Fire TV Sticks and Roku boxes will also be able to tune in without paying a penny extra.

5 says the 15 new live ad-supported (FAST) channels include Police Interceptors, 5 Cops, Bargain Loving Brits, Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, The Yorkshire Vet, Geordie Shore, Catfish, Teen Mom, MTV Reality and Milkshake!.

The provider has also said more channels will follow throughout the year.

”5 will feature a significantly expanded content offering drawn from Paramount’s family of brands, including BET, CBS, Comedy Central and MTV Entertainment Studios,” the channel said.

Viewers will also have access to a wide range of boxsets, such as The Good Wife, Dexter and The Following.

Sarah Rose, President of 5 and UK Regional Lead at Paramount, said, “This is the start of a new and exciting era for 5 as we bring together our linear and streaming services under one clear brand. Everything our audience and our advertisers already love about Channel 5 will be central to this relaunch – but there will be much more besides, with a huge array of content from the Paramount family and beyond, new live channels and a brand-new user experience for our streaming product.”

And Ben Frow, Chief Content Officer at 5, added, “We have always been led by our audience and bringing Channel 5 and My5 together as 5 reflects our ambition that they can watch or stream whichever way suits them best.”

The rollout of 5 to devices and homes across the UK starts today and will continue over the next few months, so watch this space.