BBC iPlayer to show Blue Planet II in Ultra HD and HDR

David Attenborough’s acclaimed Blue Planet II will be available to stream in Ultra HD and High Dynamic Range via the iPlayer as part of a trial in which the BBC will assess how it produces and distributes the “next generation of high quality TV programmes.”

The series has wowed audiences on BBC One and is expected to stun even more when viewers with compatible TVs see it in the “best quality” ever offered by the broadcaster.

Charlotte Moore, Director of Content, BBC, says: “As the most watched programme of 2017, Blue Planet II, has captured the hearts of the nation.

“The series is a prime example of the world-class work of the BBC NHU documentary makers and I’m delighted that audiences will be able to watch the series in ground-breaking quality on BBC iPlayer.”

Matthew Postgate, Chief Technology and Product Officer, BBC Design & Engineering, says: “The extra quality that Ultra HD, HDR and the wider range of colours brings to audiences is unparalleled.

“Blue Planet II is the first programme we’ve shown in such high quality and perfectly demonstrates how the BBC is pushing the boundaries of digital innovation.

“Making the full series available in Ultra HD and HDR on BBC iPlayer is the next step in reinventing the BBC for a new generation, and there’s not a better place to start than with the stunning Blue Planet II.”

The UHD version will be available to stream after the final episode airs on BBC One this Sunday and is confirmed to be compatible with the following TVs an set top boxes: