What must you purchase if you own a device capable of watching or recording TV programs?

Okay, let's talk about TV licenses in the UK. Think of it like this: the BBC, or British Broadcasting Corporation, is a major public service broadcaster. Unlike commercial channels that rely heavily on advertising, the BBC is funded primarily through the TV license fee. This system was established way back in 1922 to fund the British Broadcasting Company, as it was originally known. The idea was to ensure quality programming available to everyone, free from commercial pressures. So, if you're watching or recording live TV programs, regardless of the device – whether it's a TV, computer, or even a mobile phone – you need a TV license. This is because you're essentially accessing content that the license fee helps to create. It's not about owning a video player or speakers; it's about accessing broadcast TV. And while beer and popcorn are great for watching TV, they don't contribute to the funding of the programs themselves!