BBC unveils plans to launch BBC+1 and new generation iPlayer

The BBC is planning to launch a BBC+1 channel and ‘next generation’ iPlayer, director general Tony Hall has announced.

In his first major speech since taking charge of the corporation in April, Hall described the channel as the “nation’s favourite channel, and also the bravest,” as he unveiled plans to implement time-shifted viewing.

Hall also spoke of the future of the channel’s video platform iPlayer, stating that by 2022, iPlayer would be the “front door of the BBC” – offering a 30 day catch-up window instead of seven (subject to Trust approval) and exclusive content made solely for online.

BBC iPlayer also plans to experiment with pop-up channels, online channels, the ability to create unique user schedules and the ability to pause and resume TV from one screen to another.

“The new generation of BBC iPlayer is set to transform our relationship with audiences,” said Hall. “In the coming years, for many people BBC iPlayer is going to be the front door to our programming and the experience they have is going to be a world away from that of a traditional ‘one to many’ broadcaster.

“It will be a relationship where we provide our audiences with what they want, when and how they want it. And crucially through enhanced interactivity, they will also be able to tell us what they think of these programmes and services too. That conversation excites me hugely as it means our audiences won’t just receive the programmes we make, they will contribute to how we make them as well.”