BBC to expand iPlayer over-the-air downloads
Ξ October 13th, 2008 | → | ∇ Gadgets |
Right off the back of the BBC’s recent iPlayer expansion, which opened up the service to an even wider range of mobile devices, Auntie has something else to look forward to. The Corporation has now signed an agreement that will allow more over-the-air downloads to future and existing handsets.
So far, the recently launched Nokia N96 is the only device that is able to stream iplayer videos AND download shows directly to its memory. Others, like the iPhone and iPod Touch have to make do with just streaming, while the rest get by with downloading compatible video files to a computer. You then have to transfer them across manually.
This new agreement will cut out the middle man, allowing you to browse and download content to enjoy whenever you want - not just when you can get a decent signal.
You’re still going to have to be very wary about the cost of downloading content in this way. We strongly doubt that Auntie is going to pick up the tab for your data roaming, so if you’re going to take full advantage of the system, you’ll need to pick your mobile data contract pretty carefully. Check out our guide for the data deals each of the UK networks offer.
You’re safest bet is still with WiFi though. The new agreement includes using wireless internet to access iPlayer as well.
The Beeb hasn’t put a date on when this will all be happening, and we don’t expect the floodgates to open all at once. But we’ll keep an eye out for more device compatibility to start rolling out in the near future.
