BBC introduces free mobile downloads for iPlayer

4 Sep 2012

BBC viewers in the UK can now download programmes from the British broadcaster directly to a mobile device free of charge via the BBC iPlayer app.

Shows that are downloaded will be available to watch for up to 30 days, allowing users to stock up on programming for later viewing without an internet connection. They will even be able to watch downloaded shows when abroad. Once the user first presses play on a download, they will have seven days of viewing remaining, so repeat viewing is possible if not limited.

The introduction of mobile downloads is part of the BBC’s strategy to make more content available to mobile internet users, having seen a 142pc year-on-year increase in requests for BBC iPlayer content via mobile devices.

The new service is available now on iOS devices and will be rolled out to Android soon.

Elaine Burke is the host of For Tech’s Sake, a co-production from Silicon Republic and The HeadStuff Podcast Network. She was previously the editor of Silicon Republic.

editorial@siliconrepublic.com