BBC iPlayer Downloads App Closure Announcement
Recently, the BBC announced the closure of a significant feature on the iPlayer app, leading to disappointment among TV viewers.
What is Changing?
Currently, viewers can access a wide range of TV shows and films on iPlayer across various devices, including smart TVs, laptops, desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones.
The ability to download programs for offline viewing without WiFi will no longer be available on the iPlayer Downloads app for laptops and desktop computers.
Reasons for the Change
The BBC cited low usage and maintenance costs as the reasons behind this decision.
Timeline of Changes
- February 2 – New downloads of the BBC iPlayer Downloads app will cease
- March 11 – Downloading programs from the web will end, but existing downloads can be watched until April 8
- April 8 – The BBC iPlayer Downloads app will be closed
Impact on Viewers
From April 8, viewers on laptops and desktop computers will no longer be able to download programs for offline viewing. However, mobile app users will still have this feature.
Viewer Reactions
Many viewers expressed disappointment and frustration over the closure of the desktop Downloads app, highlighting the convenience it provided for offline viewing.