BBC iPlayer content could be expanded as the service considers adding media from a competing channel.
It comes as the continues to compete with giants such as and .
The BBC is currently considering plans to feature content from a competing broadcaster on its iPlayer service (stock image) Credit: Getty
In an attempt to remain competitive with other streaming giants, the BBC confirmed it has approached Channel 4 about the possibility of ‘a sovereign streaming platform’ Credit: PA
New Director General of the Matt Brittin confirmed the broadcaster is currently considering the possibility of creating a “sovereign streaming platform in the UK”.
He revealed that the BBC was exploring a potential collaboration with , with “an approach and a discussion” having already taken place.
The move would see some of Channel 4’s content brought over to the iPlayer service in an effort to help both players stay competitive.
This would build on a previous agreement Channel 4 and UKTV, which is owned by the BBC’s commercial division.
Under the multi-year carriage agreement, Channel 4 gained access thousands of hours of additional free TV content and shows from the BBC via their online service.
This included fan favourite content such as The Office, Red Dwarf, and Would I Lie To You?
Now, the BBC appears to be proposing Channel 4’s content could appear on the .
Speaking to the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on the matter, Brittin said: “There is an opportunity in the long run to have a sovereign streaming platform in the UK — I use that word carefully.”
“Where do you go for quality UK content? The BBC is the biggest commissioner, but Sky-ITV remains an important commissioner, and others can too,” he continued.
“The opportunity would be to build on the incredible reach and success of iPlayer.”
Brittin described Channel 4 as looking “very subscale” in comparison to the r.
“One opportunity for it would be to have content on iPlayer in partnership with the BBC but continue to be ad-funded,” he explained.
“There is an array of commercial audience, public service and technical issues, but we will explore that as quickly as we are able to because that will be important for public service media.”
There are no further details on whether the move will actually happen, and, if so, how much access iPlayer users might get to Channel 4’s content.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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