Digital TV News

BBC iPlayer attracts 5 million viewers

Tuesday 11 August, 2009

becca.talbot@consumerchoices.co.uk

The BBC’s internet on-demand service, iPlayer, has doubled its number of users in the past year, according to Ofcom.

More and more households across Britain are watching television online, using catch-up services like the BBC iPlayer and ITV Player, according to the Communications Market 2009 report by telecommunications regulator Ofcom.

Some 15% of internet users now regularly use the BBC iPlayer, which now has 5.2 million users.

The ITV Player was the second most used online TV service, with 3.3% of users.

Jon Ingram, operations director at DigitalChoices.co.uk, said: “These figures are very impressive, and show the increase in demand for online entertainment. However, it’s more important than ever that consumers are vigilant when it comes to exceeding their download limit.”

Ingram continued: “Using services such as the iPlayer can use a lot of bandwidth, so using a tool like our Broadband Download Monitor, will help you monitor your monthly downloads and help you make sure you aren’t penalised.”

Further research by Ofcom found that Brits prefer to cut back on holidays and food than on their internet and mobile phone use during the recession.

However, in a separate study by YouGov for the MediaGuardian Edinburgh International Television Festival, consumers said a faster broadband connection would make no difference to their online TV habits.