"iPlayer is one of the BBC’s greatest inventions" says director general, Tony Hall announces revamped iPlayer service
The BBC has announced changes to BBC iPlayer which will see it evolve from a catchup service to a free-standing digital entertainment hub.
The new features will include 'pop-up' channels which will provide extended coverage of specific events such as Glastonbury, an increase in exclusive content, the ability to create a personalised television schedule and recommendations for programmes to watch which are also tailored to individual viewers.
The revamp will also include the launch of a range of online channels, including BBC Radio 1 TV, as well as others specialising in arts and science programming.
BBC director-general, Tony Hall, said: "The new generation of BBC iPlayer is set to transform our relationship with audiences. In the coming years, for many people BBC iPlayer is going to be the front door to our programming and the experience they have is going to be a world away from that of a traditional 'one to many' broadcaster."
Among the DG's other announcements were the creation of a BBC Store - which will allow users to buy content, a digital archive of Shakespeare content to mark the 400th anniversary of the Bard's death and a 'playlister' service for BBC Radio listeners.
Ralph Rivera, director of BBC Future Media, commented: “BBC iPlayer is one of the BBC’s greatest inventions and one of the UK’s favourite brands. We plan to revolutionise iPlayer from a service primarily used to catch up on BBC TV to an entertainment destination for all – wherever you are. With innovative interactive features and a new design that helps you discover more hidden gems from the BBC, iPlayer will transform online TV for audiences now and in the future.”
Since its launch five years ago on Christmas day 2007, BBC iPlayer has received 2.3 billion programme requests.