BBC iPlayer Going Multi-Platform

Author Hugo Jobling
Published 14th Oct 2008
BBC iPlayer Going Multi-Platform
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The one major criticism I've had of the iPlayer has been is the restriction of its download client to windows PCs. Proving yet again it clearly can't do anything wrong with the iPlayer, though, the BBC is partnering with Adobe to built a platform-independent client. Better still, a release has been promised before the year's end.


The client will run using Adobe Integrated Runtime (AIR), which will mean nothing to just about everyone reading this. Importantly, though, it means that windows, Mac and Linux users alike will be fully able to download and watch BBC content where-so-ever they wish.

As per the current Windows platform, downloaded programmes will be protected with DRM. That's a small price to pay for enabling access to the BBC's content, though, when all's said and done. It's not like the BBC is ungenerous with the time allowed to watch downloaded programmes.

As if that wasn't enough good news, the BBC is also announcing that a joint effort with Coremedia, Intertrust and CMLA means that the Nokia N96 is now able to receive over-the-air downloads. Personally I'd slap another two points on the existing Features score just for that - although I'd rather apple just let the BBC perform the same trick on the iPhone.

This, folks, is why we have a license fee and should continue to pay it.

Update
Sony just whizzed over press release declaring its S-series and E-series Walkman players as iPlayer compatible, too.

Is there no end to the good news today?

Link:
BBC Internet Blog.

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Comment John Wards said on 14th October 2008

The iplayer works spot on with the N95 as well, you need the direct link to the app though (have a look in the internets). I think the only reason the beeb don't support it is... more

Comment Hugo said on 14th October 2008

Azro, I think you should read the iPlayer Terms and conditions, mate.

Comment timple said on 14th October 2008

Now can someone who makes a freeview+ DVR (Humax, Panasonic are you awake?) add BBC iPlayer to the next model?

Comment DEB said on 14th October 2008

Hugo, care to elaborate your point on T&Cs. Last time I checked license fee was required for live transmission only as Azro pointed out.

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