Monday 3 January 2011

BBC Global iPlayer preparing for launch on iPad

The BBC is planning to launch a global version of its online video iPlayer, but initially it will only be available on the Apple iPad, as a monthly subscription service. BBC Worldwide, the commercial division of the BBC, has appointed Jana Bennett as president of worldwide networks and Global iPlayer. She takes up her new role in February 2011, with responsibility the BBC Worldwide wholly-owned channels and its stake in the UKTV venture. The appointment of the director of BBC Vision demonstrates the aspirations that BBC Worldwide has for the Global iPlayer, expected to pilot in the first half of 2011. There is international demand for the service, but informitv questions whether it will deliver a significant return for the corporation.