BBC Unveils New Interactive Service For Kids

The BBC is unveiling an interactive gaming and information service to support its new CBeebies and CBBC digital channels which launch next week (see BBC Announces Kids Channels Launch).

Each channel will get its own tailored content with CBeebies providing information to help the under fives achieve pre-school learning goals and CBBC catering for 6-12 year olds.

The level of interactivity of the service will differ depending on which digital platform is being used. Those accessing CBeebies content from Sky or digital cable will be offered an interactive story and two educational games at any one time.

However, CBBC ITV digital viewers will initially only be able to access a text service, with a selection of games due to follow shortly after the launch. CBBC viewers on Sky will be able to access to first interactive programme linked to The Saturday Show and will be able to go interactive with the weekday magazine show Xchange.

BBCi’s head of future TV, Greg Childs, said: “These interactive services will be at the heart of making the new CBBC channels the best for kids. They’ll have more choice greater depth and far easier means of access to their programmes than ever before.”

The channels, which are currently being promoted by a £20m marketing campaign (see BBC To Promote Digital Services), were approved by Culture Secretary, Tessa Jowell, last year (see Government Says No To BBC3).

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