Lots of people use the feature, which allows users to download shows onto their device and watch them later – meaning viewers can watch content without an internet connection
The BBC will be making a major change to the iPlayer service, meaning a well-loved feature will be blocked to some UK viewers.
Lots of people use the feature, which allows users to download shows onto their devices and watch them later – allowing users to view content without an internet connection.
The feature, which is especially useful for those travelling on flights, long car journeys or taking the train, where internet connection can be poor or non-existent is being changed on March 11, the BBC has said.
In a statement, the corporation said it will soon stop the option for viewing offline when using Windows-powered PCs and Apple’s MacBook. In a statement, the broadcaster explained: “We have started the process of closing the Desktop Downloads App.
“Downloading programmes from a computer or laptop will no longer be available from Monday, March 11 but you can still watch your existing downloads until Monday 8 April 2024.” It adds: “You can also still download your favourite programmes on your mobile device, and add programmes to your Watchlist to return later.”
The affected devices include Windows PCs including those running Windows 10 and Windows 11 and also Apple MacBook devices including MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and MacBooks, the Express reports.
As of Friday 2 February, new users were blocked from downloading and installing the BBC iPlayer Downloads app on the affected platforms.
Existing fans will find they can no longer use the Desktop Downloads App from Monday 11 March while any existing downloads will be available until April but after that date, they will stop working too.
As of April 8, the BBC iPlayer Downloads app will be close to users on the addicted devices. However, people using the iPlayer app on smartphones and tablets will be unaffected, with devices such as iPhones, Galaxy smartphones and iPads still able to download shows. Just launch the iPlayer app then tap “Download” underneath the episode you want to download.
The decision has drawn anger from some online commenters, with one user named Jo saying, “BBC iPlayer downloads have been my lifeline. My internet is super unreliable, I don’t have a tablet and my phone screen is tiny, I don’t wanna watch Sherlock on that.”
List of impacted devices:
- Windows PCs including those running Windows 10 and Windows 11
- • Apple MacBook devices including MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and MacBooks
Laura Adams is a tech enthusiast residing in the UK. Her articles cover the latest technological innovations, from AI to consumer gadgets, providing readers with a glimpse into the future of technology.
