BBC unveils new version of iPlayer

chris

The BBC has unveiled its "next generation" version of iPlayer which fully integrates television and radio.

The initiative has recorded more than 100 million requests to view programmes in the six months since its launch.

The new-look service is launching in "beta" - a preview version - which will run alongside the existing iPlayer for the coming weeks.

Speaking at the launch in central London, Erik Huggers, the BBC's group controller for future media and technology said the goal was to re-invent the way consumers access the media.

He said: "The next generation of BBC iPlayer allows UK licence fee payers to catch up on their favourite BBC TV and radio programmes in one place - a completely unique on-demand service.

"Audiences are now able to experience the full range of BBC content - some 250 TV programmes currently available each week as well as all the BBC radio networks - in a new and more accessible way, and all for free."

Mr Huggers said that the BBC was also talking to other players in the industry.

On demand radio was launched by the BBC in 2002, with around 600 million hours having being listened to via streaming or the listen again function.

The new-look iPlayer will offer a more "cinematic" experience, with a larger playback screen to watch television programmes.

The service will be available on other platforms for TV catch-up, including the Apple iPhone and the Nintendo Wii.

Source: The Press Association