Freeview was launched in October 2002

The BBC has said that this means its digital channels, radio networks and interactive services are now available in over 13 million UK households.

Freeview was launched in October 2002 as a replacement to ITV Digital.

It allows viewers access to over 50 channels by purchasing a set-top box, for a one-off fee of around �50.

The available channels include BBC Three and BBC Four, as well as Sky News, UK History and the shopping channel QVC.

Encouraging

The BBC has also said that Freeview's rise in popularity has helped to hasten digital take-up amongst analogue viewers, while establishing digital terrestrial television (DTT) as the second largest digital platform in the UK.

"The continued growth of digital television is very encouraging," said Andy Duncan, BBC Director of Marketing, Communications and Audiences.

"The Freeview figures show that the free proposition has really cut through and is currently the single most important factor in driving digital take-up."

The news comes just weeks after BSkyb announced it was planning to launch its own free-to-air digital service later this year.

Viewers will be able to purchase a set-top box for a one-off fee of �150, which will give them access to around 200 channels, including the BBC's digital services and Sky News.