BBC iPlayer launches mobile downloads

The BBC has today launched mobile iPlayer downloads, meaning smartphone and tablet users can watch BBC shows without connecting to the internet.

The new mobile downloads feature is initially available on iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices running iOS 5.1 and the BBC said it would bring the feature to Android phones and tablets soon.

Downloaded programmes can be viewed for up to 30 days after the date of download or up to seven days once viewing has commenced. Until today, programmes could only be downloaded to PCs and Macs.

The public broadcaster said today’s launch builds on its strategy to move iPlayer beyond the PC and make more content available across mobile, tablet and internet connected TVs. In July, there were 30 million requests for BBC iPlayer TV programmes via a mobile or tablet, an increase of 142% year on year.

Daniel Danker, general manager, programmes and on-demand for the BBC says, “With mobile downloads for BBC iPlayer, you can now load up your mobile phone or tablet with hours and hours of BBC television programmes, then watch them on the road, on the tube, on a plane, without worrying about having an internet connection or running up a mobile data bill. Viewers have up to 30 days to begin watching a downloaded programme, so you can even fill up your device and take the BBC with you on holiday.”