BBC iPlayer US and global versions arriving 2011

The BBC iPlayer US and global versions will arrive next year. A version to take on services like Hulu will hit the US in 2011 along with an international version rolling out to other countries where the BBC can flog popular shows like Top Gear and Doctor Who. Read on for news on BBC iPlayer US and international outings straight from the broadcaster…

We told you back in September that the BBC had appointed Mark Smith to head up the international BBC iPlayer project now John Smith, chief executive of BBC Worldwide has spilled more beans.

In a letter to The Telegraph he says:  “We believe there is an under-exploited market for UK shows which the web might open up. Hence our work on a global iPlayer which we hope to bring to market next year.

Not only will that mean international fans can get their fix legitimately but it has the potential for opening up a new revenue stream for the entire UK production industry.”

The BBC has yet to reveal exactly when the international BBC iPlayer will be unveiled or how it’ll be paid for. It may emerge as a subscription service or as an ad-supported offering. We’re hoping it throws open the gates for UK licence payers to watch their favourite shows wherever they are in the world.

Hit the comments and let us know: how should the BBC make US and global BBC iPlayer variants work?

Out 2011 | £TBC | BBC (via NYT)

Be Sociable, Share!

•