Andre Yoskowitz
10 Nov 2010 18:10
BBC Worldwide CEO John Smith has said today that the popular iPlayer streaming service will go global next year, giving users around the world a chance to enjoy shows like Top Gear and Doctor Who, which normally air in the UK.
The service will likely be free with ads, although the BBC may decide to charge a subscription fee.
After receiving the approval of the BBC Trust, Smith says the plans are now to introduce the service next year. Executives in the company have said the Trust's decision will allow them to raise funds. Earlier this year the government froze the license fee.
Adds Smith: "Not only will that mean international fans of, for example, Doctor Who can get their fix legitimately [rather than downloading programmes illegally], but it has the potential of opening up a new revenue stream for the entire UK production industry, alongside sales to traditional broadcasters."
Notes Luke Bradley-Jones, MD of Global iPlayer: "Our research has shown there is an international audience of British TV fans that are frequently watching TV online – and we are excited about rolling out our iPlayer VOD [video-on-demand] service to meet and grow this demand. We strongly believe the Global iPlayer is going to offer an excellent opportunity for the UK's creative industry to directly reach much sought after digital audiences and revenue streams around the world."