BBC Media Player to replace Flash for iPlayer

The BBC is launching a new video player that will allow Android smartphone and tablet users to use iPlayer when Adobe removes its support for the Flash Player plug-in on the devices.

The broadcaster previously used Adobe Flash to stream content from its catch-up platform to Android devices. Next week it will release the BBC Media Player for Android. The player will work on newer Android devices running the JellyBean operating system and will be compatible with earlier operating systems, including the most widely used Gingerbread and FroYo.

“We want people to have the best experience possible when they’re watching BBC TV programmes or listening to BBC radio programmes. This means, amongst other things, making them available on as many devices as is practical,” said Chris Yanda, executive product manager at BBC Future Media.