BBC Extends On-Demand Access Trial

The BBC has extended its integrated Media Player (iMP) trial by two months, allowing current participants access to the previous seven day’s BBC programmes until 28 February 2006.

The iMP service, which lets people legally download BBC TV and radio programmes to their PC once they have aired, is currently in its second phase of testing, with the BBC now hoping to gain more data on user needs and actual usage of the service (see BBC Enters Second Phase Of Web TV Trial).

Tony Ageh, BBC controller, internet, explained the need for an extension of the trial, stating: “We really want to understand the benefits that iMP can bring to our audiences. We know that there is likely to be a ‘honeymoon’ period of a few weeks, when our participants are likely to use iMP more often than normal.

“The data from the extra two months should really help us to comprehend what users want from the service and how they are using it. This will be invaluable for us in making our case to the BBC Board of Governors for a full roll out of iMP.”

Around 5,000 users are currently enrolled in the iMP trial, allowing them access to around 300 hours of radio and television each a week.

BBC: 020 8743 8000 www.bbc.co.uk