BBC HD comes to iPlayer
The BBC’s free to air high definition channel BBC HD is now available via BBC iPlayer, allowing users to stream HD programmes for up to seven days after broadcast.
BBC iPlayer users will now be able to download and watch a wide range of high definition programmes from across other BBC channels, with up to five times more detail than standard definition television, according to the BBC.
The introduction of BBC HD content on the iPlayer will give viewers access to the next three Doctor Who specials across 2009, the new series of Dragons’ Den and the revival of sitcom The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin, all in high definition.
In addition, the BBC has announced that higher quality streams are also available within a new resizable media player.
The media player allows users to select a new large playback window size, which means “users can enjoy video streams which are nearly twice as good as the previous High Quality format”.
The BBC said its new “adaptive bitrate technology will automatically deliver the best possible viewing experience by detecting the amount of bandwidth available and switching streaming options accordingly”.
Other features unveiled by the BBC include a new internet speed diagnostics page and the full release of the new BBC iPlayer Desktop, the Adobe-AIR based cross-platform manager that allows Windows, Mac and Linux users to download BBC programmes, including those in HD.
Danielle Nagler, head of BBC HD, said: “It’s great that we’ve been able to bring the BBC HD channel to the BBC iPlayer family.
“For some people this will be their first experience of high definition viewing, allowing them to see and hear programmes that they love from the BBC in the very best quality possible.
“In the last month we’ve extended the channel hours to nine per day, refreshed the look, enhanced the range of programmes, and now our HD content will be available whenever and wherever audiences want it.
“We’re seeing huge demand for HD content and I’m confident that this will help ensure it is as accessible as possible.”
Anthony Rose, controller, BBC FM&T Vision & Online Media Group, added: “Introducing BBC HD and other higher quality streams enables users to enjoy BBC programmes in HD without a set-top box, and also marks a significant milestone in boosting video quality over BBC iPlayer.
“Alongside this, the new adaptive bitrate technology and speed diagnostics page help optimise the viewing experience, while the resizable window gives users flexibility to switch between different quality streams, hopefully leading to a more satisfying experience overall.”