Short answer: the best smart TV apps in the UK are the free broadcaster apps — BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and 5 — plus the streaming services you already pay for, such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and NOW. Most are available on Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, TCL and streaming sticks.
Best free smart TV apps UK
| App | What it offers | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| BBC iPlayer | BBC live channels and box sets | Free (TV licence needed) |
| ITVX | ITV channels, live and on demand | Free with ads; Premium optional |
| Channel 4 | Channel 4, E4, More4 and box sets | Free with ads |
| 5 | Channel 5 programmes and live TV | Free with ads |
| U | Dave, Drama, W and more | Free with ads |
| YouTube | Videos, music and free films | Free |
Best paid streaming apps
- Netflix — films and series, several plan tiers
- Amazon Prime Video — included with Prime
- Disney+ — Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar
- NOW — Sky Entertainment, Cinema and Sports on monthly passes
- Apple TV — Apple originals
- Paramount+ and discovery+
Apps by TV brand
| Brand | Where to find apps | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Home → Apps | Samsung apps guide |
| LG | Home → Apps / LG Content Store | LG apps guide |
| Sony, TCL (Google TV) | Google Play Store | Google TV guide |
| Fire TV Stick | Amazon Appstore | Fire TV guide |
| Roku | Roku Channel Store | Roku guide |
| Apple TV 4K | App Store | Apple TV guide |
| PS5 / Xbox Series X|S | Media tab (PS5) / Microsoft Store (Xbox) | PS5 and Xbox TV apps guide |
Useful utility apps
- Speed-test apps to check your broadband on the TV
- Media players such as Plex or VLC for your own videos
- Music apps like Spotify and Amazon Music
What if an app is missing?
Older TVs can lose support for some apps. Update your TV software first; if the app is still not available, a streaming stick is the cheapest fix — see smart TV vs Fire TV Stick.
Stay safe
Only install apps from your TV’s official store. Apps offering paid channels for free are unlicensed and can put your devices at risk — read our smart TV security guide.
FAQ
Which apps are free on a smart TV in the UK?
BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, 5, U and YouTube, plus free channel apps such as Samsung TV Plus and LG Channels.
Can I add apps to any smart TV?
You can add apps from the TV’s own store. Available apps depend on the brand and model year.