BBC iPlayer coming to a mobile phone near you

According to a recent report the popular BBC iPlayer will soon be available on mobile phones that are equipped with mobile broadband.

The BBC’s free download service, BBC iPlayer, has proven popular amongst consumers since its launch, with many enjoying the chance to watch their favourite shows. So far the BBC iPlayer has been available for streaming on the iPod Touch and the Apple iPhone but according to recent reports it will also soon be available on mobile phones that are equipped with mobile broadband.

The first phone that will offer access to BBC iPlayer is the Nokia N96. It will then be rolled out to other mobile phones that are broadband enabled, and the purpose built version of iPlayer will be made available from the start of October.

An official from the BBC said: “Over the past eight months we have worked tirelessly to ensure BBC iPlayer is available on as many platforms as possible, from the PC and TV to games consoles and mobiles. This partnership is critical to ensuring we continue to reach out to audiences wherever they are and allow them to catch-up on their favourite BBC programmes.”

A Nokia spokesperson stated: “The Nokia N96 is going to provide a gateway to quality viewing on the move. The enormous success of iPlayer has demonstrated the desire audiences have for accessing programmes at a time and a place that suits them.”

However, consumers are warned that whilst access to the iPlayer is free with Nokia consumers will still have to pay for their data based on the deal that they have from their provider. One official said: “Users will be able to download programmes via either a wireless connection or using mobile broadband. But anyone regularly downloading episodes of Eastenders or Dragon’s Den without a wireless connection will have to be very careful that they don’t exceed their mobile broadband download allowance – otherwise they could end up with a hefty bill at the end of the month.”