BBC iPlayer app spreads to iPhone, iPod touch

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 07 December 2011 11:42

Your IT - Mobility

Along with a version of the iPlayer app for iPhone and iPod touch, BBC Worldwide has announced the availability of a free piece of content each day until Christmas Day.

Having previously launched its global iPlayer app for the iPad, BBC Worldwide will tomorrow release a version for the iPhone and iPod touch.

The full iPlayer is the BBC's web-based 'catch up TV' service for UK residents. The global iPlayer is a subscription service providing access to a limited collection of shows from the BBC archive and so far accessible only via iOS devices. The service is available in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, The Republic of Ireland, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

"The extension of the BBC Global iPlayer App onto iPhone and iPod Touch is a significant development in our strategy as it will open up the opportunity for a whole new audience to enjoy the best moments from seventy years of brilliant BBC programs, wherever and whenever they want," said Jana Bennett, BBC Worldwide president of worldwide networks and global iPlayer.

Until Christmas Day, the iPlayer app will give non-subscribers access to a free piece of seasonal content each day, drawn from shows such as Absolutely Fabulous Christmas specials and The Naked Chef - The Christmas Party.

BBC Worldwide has also announced that its Australian operation has secured the first sponsorship deal for the global iPlayer. From January 1, 2012, Oral B will sponsor all free content on the service. The deal provides for "brand integration and pre and post-roll credits".

Global iPlayer subscriptions cost $9.49 per month or $89.99 per year.