Best Free TV Apps for Smart TV in 2026
Updated June 2026 with current pricing, channel listings and UK setup steps. Your Smart TV is already a powerful free streaming device — you just need to know which apps to install. Whether you own a Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, or any Android TV, dozens of free apps give you access to live channels, catch-up television, and on-demand content without a single subscription payment.
This guide covers the best free TV apps for every major Smart TV platform, how to install them, and how to get the most out of your television without spending a penny. For a broader overview of all free options (not just Smart TV apps), see our complete free streaming services guide.
Best Free Apps for Samsung Smart TVs
Samsung Smart TVs run the Tizen operating system with access to the Samsung App Store. They also come with Samsung TV Plus pre-installed — over 100 free linear channels that play immediately when you tune to channel 4000+. Beyond Samsung TV Plus, these are the essential free apps to install:
To install these apps, press the Home button on your Samsung remote, navigate to Apps, and search for each one. They are all free to download and use.
Best Free Apps for LG Smart TVs
LG Smart TVs run webOS and include LG Channels (formerly LG Channel Plus) as their built-in free FAST service. LG Channels offers 200+ free channels including news, entertainment, sports highlights, and movies. In addition, the LG Content Store provides access to all the same UK broadcaster apps and FAST platforms available on Samsung — BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, My5, Pluto TV, and more.
LG TVs from 2018 onwards also support Freeview Play, which integrates all UK free-to-air channels into the TV's native programme guide alongside internet-delivered catch-up content. This makes LG TVs particularly strong for free TV viewing. For more about this feature, see our Freeview app guide.
Best Free Apps for Android TV & Google TV
Android TV (used by Sony, Philips, TCL, and others) and Google TV (Chromecast with Google TV) have the widest app selection through the Google Play Store. Every app mentioned in this guide is available, plus Android-exclusive options like Tubi (enormous free film library) and XUMO Play.
Google TV's home screen also surfaces free content from across your installed apps, making it easy to discover free movies and shows without opening each app individually. If you do not have a Smart TV with Android or Google TV, an Amazon Firestick or a Freeview box plugged into any TV provides a similar experience.
How to Get the Most From Free Smart TV Apps
Create free accounts
Most apps work without an account, but creating one (free) unlocks personalised recommendations, watchlists, and the ability to resume watching across devices.
Check for Freeview Play
If your TV supports Freeview Play, enable it in Settings. It combines live Freeview channels with catch-up from all broadcasters in one integrated guide.
Explore hidden FAST channels
Samsung TV Plus, LG Channels, and Pluto TV each have unique channel lineups. Having all three installed triples your free channel count.
Organise your app list
Move your most-used free apps to the front of your TV's app launcher for quick access. On Samsung, long-press an app and select 'Move to front'.
Consider an aerial-free setup
With these apps installed, you may not need a TV aerial at all. Our guide to free TV on Smart TV without an aerial explains the full approach.
Not Sure Which Apps to Install?
Tell us your TV brand and we will recommend the best free apps for you.