SWTOR F2P option and Update 1.5: HK-51 Activated live

Star Wars: The Old Republic's free-to play option has gone live, and it allows players to complete the storylines of all eight classes to level 50 for free.

Also today, BioWare released Update 1.5: HK-51 Activated, which adds new areas to explore, a new Companion character and more.

Here's the blurb on the update:

• Get ready for an action-packed adventure to earn control of one of the galaxy’s most deadly Assassins, HK-51. Submerged beneath the icy surface of Belsavis lies a derelict ship and if you are brave enough to venture through the wreckage, you will embark on a mission that ultimately rewards you with a powerful new, yet familiar, ally the ruthless Assassin Droid, HK-51.
• Explore Section X, a previously untouched area of the prison world of Belsavis. The Dread Masters’ servants are searching for a powerful and ancient weapon. Fly to Section X and secure the target of their search to be richly rewarded.
• Travel to Denova to take on Operation: Explosive Conflict – now with a Nightmare Mode! Teams who complete in this new mode can earn the final pieces of the Dread Guard gear set and a brand new mount that will be sure to cause tank envy.

Screens are below.