Google’s Freeplay service on Google TV is undergoing changes, as some TV channels are being removed while others are making a comeback. Seasonal Christmas channels like Xumo Holiday Movie Channel, Xumo Holiday Classics, and Xumo Christian Christmas are bidding farewell, as they are deemed irrelevant outside the holiday season. In a positive turn of events, popular channels Shades of Black and Out TV Proud are returning after a brief hiatus, much to the delight of viewers.
Despite the overall reduction in Freeplay’s channel list, Google TV users can still access around 160 free channels, offering a diverse range of content from documentaries and sports to Bollywood movies and true crime. The Freeplay service is part of the growing trend of Free Ad-supported Streaming Television (FAST) options, providing viewers with an alternative to subscription-based platforms like Netflix.
As the streaming market becomes more fragmented and subscription prices increase, many people are turning towards free, ad-supported TV for their entertainment needs. While Google continues to curate its Freeplay channel lineup, users can look forward to enjoying a variety of content throughout 2025.