The BBC has set out plans for the next 12 months ahead of a critical point in its Charter renewal negotiations.
The plan outlines how the Corporation will continue its “Value for All” strategy while adapting to changing audience behaviour, with streaming and digital platforms taking an increasingly central role.
It comes a day after the BBC Board confirmed the appointment of Matt Brittin as the corporation’s next director-general.
The BBC said further development of iPlayer remains a key priority as viewing shifts towards on-demand consumption. Planned improvements include enhanced personalisation, a better user experience and more seamless integration across the BBC’s wider digital portfolio.
The Corporation also intends to test new digital content formats, including short-form video, to improve discovery and engagement on iPlayer.
Alongside its owned platforms, the BBC will expand its distribution on YouTube to reach younger and lighter audiences, as part of a wider strategy to grow engagement, counter disinformation and strengthen its presence on third-party platforms.
The moves reflect a broader shift in the BBC’s approach, balancing investment in its own services with selective use of global platforms to extend reach.
The Annual Plan comes as the BBC approaches the end of its current Royal Charter, with negotiations with the UK government under way. The corporation has already called for “radical reform” to secure a sustainable funding model and maintain its role as a universal public service broadcaster.
BBC chair Samir Shah said the coming year would be pivotal in ensuring the BBC remains fit for the future, while outgoing director-general Tim Davie warned the organisation faces significant pressure from financial constraints, increased competition and changing audience habits.
Alongside its digital priorities, the BBC will continue investment in UK-originated content, including new drama and major live events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while targeting further cost savings of 10% across its public service operations.
The strategy underlines the BBC’s focus on evolving its digital services while maintaining its public service remit, as it seeks to compete more effectively in a global streaming market.
