May 28, 2010

BBC iPlayer Gets a Social Makeover

The award-winning BBC iPlayer has undergone a facelift that will see the service become more social and tailor recommendations to your viewing habits.

Currently in a trial version, the revamped iPlayer will allow users to log in using existing BBC login details, which will allow them to personalise their iPlayer experience. It is the latest development using IPTV technology to provide the best video on demand (VOD) services.

Another key feature of the facelift will be the aggregated content from broadcasters like 4OD, Demand Five and SeeSaw.

“It’s a complete social ecosystem”

The introduction of these links to other VOD platforms will be launched later in the year. It will mean that if someone is searching for a non-BBC programme, they will be directed to the relevant platform, unless it is from Sky Player.

The BBC’s Anthony Rose, who is chief technology officer for Project Canvas – a new online broadcast initiative currently under development – claimed that, “we spent more time designing [the new interface] than building it”, before claiming it is a “complete social ecosystem”.

This new version also includes an “adaptive bit-rate system” that will adjust video quality to the broadcasts.

By making the VOD platform more social and interactive for users, it will allow them to enjoy a greater service, personalised to their viewing habits and interests.