The BBC is fun for all the family, until Mary Berry turns up and starts talking about soggy bottoms.
That’s possibly why the BBC has decided to launch a dedicated iPlayer app designed for children.
The UK broadcaster has confirmed that a child-friendly version of iPlayer is in the works, and will launch next year.
“I’m delighted to be able to tell you – hot off the press – that next year we will be launching a dedicated children’s version of BBC iPlayer,” reveals Alice Webb, Director of BBC Children.
Webb continues: “
To ensure that no dodgy content ends up being viewed by minors, the BBC will be curating the media available on the app.
“Parents can also be confident that the app only contains content suitable for children,” explains Webb. “So, whether it’s in the back of the car on a long journey with a tablet or on the bus to school on a mobile, kids will be able to watch their favourite shows wherever they are, whenever they want to.”
The BBC won’t be the first to make the move to child-friendly on-demand video.
Both YouTube and Netflix have already proffered kid-safe versions of the services.
Related: Netflix vs Amazon Prime Instant Video
BBC’s iPlayer is one of the most popular streaming services in the UK, so it’s no surprise that its looking to hook more children into the fold.
And it probably won’t struggle either; the BBC says 75% of children already have access to a tablet at home.
What’s more, apparently 50% of primary school age children use social media. Perfect for sharing what you’re watching on the BBC iPlayer kids app, eh?
Are you a parent? If so, do you think a child-friendly version of iPlayer is a good idea? Tell us why in the comments.
Check out our iOS 9 features video below:
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
