The BBC Trust has launched a review that will look into how the BBC’s involvement in broadband TV service YouView is meeting the conditions set for it by the Trust.
Launched in July 2012, YouView is a joint venture between the BBC and six other partners: ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, BT, Talk Talk and Arqiva. It had been conceived as a vehicle for the public service broadcasters, but it is now providing considerable pick up for the IPTV services of the telco partners.
When the BBC’s regulatory body approved the involvement of the corporation it was subject to a review 12 months after launch.
Of particular interest is the use of so-called ‘editorial signposts’ to help audiences make decisions about what they watch. It will also study whether YouView has had an impact on other public service broadcasters in the approach they take to making their programme content available to other platforms.
The Trust will look at the way in which YouView is promoted by its partners, with particular reference to BBC activity, which is subject to the BBC code on cross promotion.
The Trust’s review will conclude this autumn.
