BBC Three will be granted prominence within platforms’ EPGs when the youth -skewing network re-introduces a linear channel.
Following a detailed analysis if the BBC’s proposals, Ofcom has concluded the public value of BBC Three returning as a broadcast channel justifies what it calls a “limited adverse market impact”. The concern would be the effect a publicly funded service would have on commercial competitors.
“We have provisionally found that the channel would increase the availability and reach of BBC Three to people who currently don’t access it – particularly viewers from lower income households and those living outside of London and the South-East,” the regulator said in a statement.
Ofcom’s conclusions also mean proposed changes to the Electronic Programme Guide Code of Practice. Operators would be required to ensure BBC Three appears within the first 24 slots of on-screen programme guides.
The BBC is planning to relaunch BBC Three in January 2022
