BBC iPlayer to launch internationally in 2011

by Steven Mostyn - Nov 9 2010, 09:21

The words ‘Not available in your area’ will soon be a thing of the past for BBC fans that, while eager to experience Auntie’s online content, have to suffer the annoyance of being locked out of the iPlayer due to not residing within the United Kingdom.

More pointedly, BBC Worldwide chief executive John Smith has this week told broadsheet publication The Daily Telegraph that an international version of the BBC’s award-winning catch-up service is expected to launch in 2011.

While travelling businessmen, ex-pats, and English-speaking foreigners will likely be thrilled at the prospect of watching BBC shows such as EastEnders, Top Gear and Spooks, Smith’s comments regarding the potential service suggest catch-up access might not be free.

“Not only will that mean international fans of, for example, Doctor Who can get their fix legitimately, but it has the potential of opening up a new revenue stream for the entire UK production industry, alongside sales to traditional broadcasters,” he said in the report.

It remains to be seen how the BBC will create that revenue; whether it will be gathered via subscription-based charges, on-site advertising, or perhaps even a mixture of both. 

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