Next generation iPlayer launched

Radio and TV integrated in one interface

25 June 2008 13:46 GMT / By Katie Scott

The BBC has unveiled a new-look BBC iPlayer which fully integrates radio and TV in one interface.

The new-look service, which launches in beta tomorrow (26 June), will "dual run" alongside the existing iPlayer for the next few weeks.

Erik Huggers, the BBC's group controller for future media and technology, explains: "The next generation of BBC iPlayer allows UK licence fee payers to catch up on their favourite BBC TV and radio programmes in one place – a completely unique on-demand service".

"Audiences are now able to experience the full range of BBC content – some 250 TV programmes currently available each week as well as all the BBC radio networks – in a new and more accessible way, and all for free.

"On-demand radio from the BBC has been a phenomenal success since it was first launched in 2002, with around 600 million hours listened to via streaming or the 'listen again' function."

"The full integration with iPlayer is a natural evolution for the audio service and an exciting step for audiences."

iPlayer users can now choose to either listen again to BBC Radio from the last 7 days or listen live – while the option of a pop-out player allows users to continue listening as they browse other web pages.

The Listen again tool also allows users to rewind and fast forward in the same way that they can for TV programmes.

Other key enhancements include combined TV and radio categories such as comedy and drama, a larger playback screen to watch TV programmes and a TV schedule that allows users to plan their viewing over the coming days.

The new-look BBC iPlayer will be available on other platforms for TV catch-up, including the Apple iPhone and iPod touch, and the Nintendo Wii.