New look for the iPlayer
The BBC has announced a slew of new features for the BBC iPlayer as part of a fresher, simpler look for the catch-up TV service. The integration uses the BBC ID system to then link the iPlayer to their Twitter and Facebook accounts.
“The launch of this version of the BBC iPlayer is part of our strategy to do fewer things even better and make it more simple, personal and connected. We must no longer try to do everything online, but focus on delivering genuinely world-class products like BBC iPlayer – which audiences love and which really embodies the BBC’s core mission in a digital age,” commented BBC Director of Future Media and Technology, Erik Huggers. “Bringing the benefits of emerging technologies to the public is in the BBC’s DNA as its sixth public purpose. BBC iPlayer gives audiences greater control over the programmes they enjoy, guarantees subscription-free access to BBC content in an on-demand world, and provides better value for the content they have already paid for.
An embedded link with Windows Live Messenger will make it possible for iPlayer uses to chat with other users about the programmes they are watching.
Later in the summer links will be added to arguably rival services ITV Player, 4oD, Clic, Demand Five and SeeSaw. Sky, which already links its Sky Player service to the BBC iPlayer, has been invited to have a link included but as so far failed to respond.
Favourite lists can be created to allow users to gain faster access to new episodes and returning series.
In the next few months a rewind feature will be introduced that will allow live television to be paused for up to two hours.
