BBC debuts cross-platform iPlayer app, HD video
updated 03:00 pm EDT, Thu April 16, 2009
BBC cross-platform iPlayer
The BBC has released a completed version of the iPlayer Desktop, a cross-platform application that lets users download recent BBC programming, rather than simply view it on the web or TV. The app is based on Adobe's AIR platform, and is compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux systems. Access is restricted to residents of the UK however, and files are set to expire and delete automatically after a given timeframe, no longer than 30 days.
In tandem with the new app, the BBC says it has started incorporating HD quality into streaming and downloads. Bitrate can be as high as 1500kbps, and is scaled to match the window size chosen by users; maximum quality is enabled in full-screen mode. HD should eventually become available on devices such as the PlayStation 3 and Virgin's set-top box.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Apr 2003
Wish UK would share
I think the reason given for UK-only content has to do with their taxes: they tax televisions, thus feel that non-taxpayers shouldn't have the content.
That's a shame. I've always thought it a short-sighted tax system. The UK economy would likely benefit from more generous export of their BBC content. Some of us would pay a small fee if the fee/plan were simple as: pay the fee, and now you can see it all, till this time next year, no matter which computer. No complex set of offerings and choices would do. Just: pay this small fee, and here's your password. Now you see what we see.