Bravo Launches Web TV In Commitment To Broadband

Flextech-owned Bravo is to become the latest broadcaster to premiere content online, with new 15-part series, Man’s Work, receiving an online airing seven days before the programme goes on-air.

The programme marks Bravo’s first foray into downloadable material, with the channel now embarking on what it calls a “commitment” to broadband.

The first episode of the programme will be available for free from the website, with users able to download direct to their PC for viewing either on screen, via iPod or on Sony PSP.

Bravo plans to offer two further shows through its website in the near future, with The Real Football Factories and My God, I’m My Dad! both becoming available during May.

Kevin Brown, producer for Bravo, explained that on-demand access to programmes is increasingly important to viewers. “Our viewers want to watch shows where and when they want,” he said. “This has been enabled with the emergence of faster, low-cost broadband connections and sophisticated mobile video hardware – such as the PSP and iPod Video.

“We have recognised the demands of our audience and offering our key commissions as free on-demand downloads marks our commitment to these emerging technologies. It also rewards our viewers with a unique, quality digital experience.”

Earlier this year saw Channel 4 debut its new comedy series, The IT Crowd, through online streaming. The broadcaster reported strong acceptance of the technology by viewers, with consumption ten times that of the BBC’s debut streaming exercise with The Mighty Boosh in 2005 (see Channel 4 Heralds The IT Crowd An Online Hit).

Flextech: www.Flextech.co.uk