The BBC is to expand the availability of its iPlayer catch-up TV service by adopting Adobe’s Flash video technology to allow it to offer a streamed version as well as the current Windows XP only version.
According to the BBC non-XP users will be able to use the service “by the end of the year.” The BBC had been criticised for launching the service ahead of support for Apple Macs and Linux powered machines.
Erik Huggers, BBC Future Media and Technology Group Controller, said: “I’m delighted to announce this strategic relationship with Adobe. It is important to ensure that BBC iPlayer is available on as many platforms as possible.
“It will offer our audiences increased flexibility as to how and when they consume our content, both live and on-demand, on bbc.co.uk. With a complete end-to-end workflow, Adobe’s video solutions will revolutionise how we create and deliver content to audiences in the digital age.”
Bruce Chizen, Chief Executive Officer of Adobe, added: “Adobe is driving the next generation of video delivery by accelerating the fusion of TV and the internet.
“With more control over playback, interactivity and branding, the move to Flash Player compatible video will help the BBC to engage audiences by delivering a seamless, instant-on web video experience.”