BBC iPlayer Plans International Launch Next Year

A global version of the BBC iPlayer is said to be launched next year after the BBC Trust approved it, giving an instant BBC fix to all worldwide fans of hit shows such as Dr Who.

John Smith, the executive chief of BBC Worldwide, which is the BBC’s commercial wing, said it was going to open up the under exploited market for UK shows thst exist for top shows such as Top Gear and Doctor Who.

The move will mean that advertising could be introduced on to the iPlayer unless BBC Worldwide decides to charge viewers to use the service.

The executives there have yet to make a discision on which option will be introduced, but they said the Trust’s decision will enable them to raise the funds that are needed after the Government’s decision to put a freeze the licence fee.

It has been estimated that there are global audiences that would happily pay up to $10 for episodes of the BBC’s most popular shows.

Mr Smith added: “Not only will that mean international fans of, for example, Doctor Who can get their fix legitimately rather than downloading programmes illegally, but it has the potential of opening up a new revenue stream for the entire UK production industry, alongside sales to traditional broadcasters.”

Luke Bradley-Jones, MD of the Global iPlayer, said: “Our research has shown there is an international audience of British TV fans that are frequently watching TV online and we are excited about rolling out our iPlayer VOD service to meet and grow this demand. We strongly believe the Global iPlayer is going to offer an excellent opportunity for the UK’s creative industry to directly reach much sought after digital audiences and revenue streams around the world.”

It will be a busy 2011 for the BBC, with the planned launch of IPTV platform Youview as well.

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4 Responses to “BBC iPlayer Plans International Launch Next Year”

BBC Shows Come To PLUS7 Catch Up TV Service on November 14th, 2010 at 3:22 pm

[...] will be a welcom relief to Aussies while they wait for the worldwide launch of the BBC iPlayer next [...]
Charles Roebuck on November 22nd, 2010 at 9:29 am

I welcome the BBC international iplayer and would suggest that the revenue be gained from advertising rather than pay to view.
iPlayer App Review For iPad – Is It Any Good? on February 11th, 2011 at 4:58 am

[...] use. Read more Techradar.com It looks like the BBC have a winner on their hands and if they can roll it out worldwide as a subscription based service. With an Android version out with the iPhone imminent it could make [...]
BBC Catch Up iPlayer International Less Than $10 on March 3rd, 2011 at 6:25 am

[...] much anticipated BBC iPlayer international launch has now been confirmed, and the price will be set at less than $10 per month says Director General [...]