Initially born as a blog on the Internet, in the past known for hosting and spreading alternative hypotheses and various conspiracy theories,[2][3] it is a free and national channel, and is exclusively financially supported by free donations from private citizens and some TV advertising, made by private subjects that are selected by Byoblu for their ethical policies.[4][5]
This latter decision was taken following a sudden closure and deletion of videos and content from their YouTube platform, due to accusations of scientific misinformation on the topic of COVID-19.[10][11] The channel had approximately half a million of registered users,[12] to whom its founder then asked donations to be able to raise a sufficient amount to purchase a digital terrestrial channel, visible throughout the Italian territory.[4][10]
Since then, Byoblu continues to be supported by the offers of voluntary contributors,[13] stating that independence from financial giants can guarantee autonomy and freedom of information.[14]
Byoblu has an online store with logistics and external warehouses that combine user purchases into a single shipping cost. The companies that offer their products in the online shop are the same ones that finance the short advertising breaks, which are broadcast by the television channel.[21]
Since July 14, 2024, Byoblu started a collaboration with Ars Europa, an Italian association that promotes the diffusion of art and classic culture through videos and modern 3D animation.[22]
The televiewers themselves are invited to participate in the creation of the Byoblu broadcast programming, which includes newscasts, information programs on current affairs, culture, economics, history, science, spirituality, through proposals and suggestions,[23] as for example in the program "È l'Ora della Verità".[24]
Various in-depth topics are focused in particular on medicine and politics, with the aim of giving voice to people, events and news deemed underrepresented by the official or so-called mainstream media,[25] also giving space to theses classified in general as anti-establishment.[17]
The TV intends to set up an association, which will have its own personal group of self-managed regional television networks, where members will be able to create the schedule and have a showcase for free and participatory discussion. Furthermore, the association will enter the so-called governance of the national television, with an annual general meeting in which the editorial line, the schedule and investment orientation will be discussed.[30]
Revenue increased from 422 keuros in 2020 to 3.5 millions in 2022. In December 2023 Messora planned to transform Byoblu into a joint-stock company.[31][32]
^«Crediamo che l'informazione sia un servizio, crediamo che debba restare indipendente, crediamo che questo significhi libertà», from the "Official Website" (in Italian).
Italy
