Big Broadcasters Join Together For Free Download Service
Consumers may soon be able to download programmes from the BBC, Channel 4 and ITV for free via broadband, after reports that the three broadcast giants are in talks over a new joint venture.
The talks could lead to a new video downloads service that could “do for broadband what Freeview did for digital TV”.
Called “Project Kangaroo”, the development will aim to create a “one-stop shop” media player for viewers to download their favourite TV shows, a source told MediaGuardian.
Initially it is expected Project Kangaroo will deliver programming to computers via broadband but the ultimate aim is to deliver it direct to televisions.
“There is still a lot to be agreed, nothing is signed yet, but they want to do what Freeview did for digital TV, but in terms of content delivered via a broadband platform,” said the source.
The insider continued: “Ultimately, Freeview boxes provide a clear way into a mass number of homes for their on-demand content.”
One source described the early plans as akin to how Joost operates as a platform to deliver programming to all personal computers (see Joost Gets New CEO).
However, Project Kangaroo would concentrate only on on-demand programming, rather than offering live streaming.
It is thought that the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 would look to create a structure of control and ownership for the on-demand TV service in a similar way to how Freeview is operated and run.
The idea for the Project Kangaroo joint venture is believed to have been inspired by Freeview.
The project is also designed to make money for the three broadcasters from broadband downloads of programmes beyond the seven day catch-up window viewers will have to watch them online for free.
Currently, the main broadcasters’ individual on-demand offerings are at different stages.
The BBC’s iPlayer is expected to launch later this year, (see BBC Trust Gives iPlayer Final Approval), whilst Channel 4 has launched a similar service, 4oD, and other broadcasters, producers and new entrants such as BT Vision (see Huge Ad Campaign For BT Vision As Service Hits The High Street) have unveiled their own broadband TV plans.
ITV also has a simulcast catch-up service that became available via its redesigned website earlier this week (see
ITV’s Online Portal Is Go Broadcasters Critical Of PSP Proposals).
ITV: 020 7843 8000 www.itv.com BBC: 020 8743 8000 www.bbc.co.uk Channel 4: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com