BBC iPlayer adds Windows Media support for content consumption on portable devices

October 9, 2008 - The BBC has announced that its hugely-popular iPlayer web TV service is now compatible with Windows Media content protection, enabling users to transfer iPlayer content onto any portable device that supports the format.

Portable devices the service is now compatible with include Sony Walkman E and S series, Archos 605 WiFi and Internet Media Tablet, Philips GoGear 52xx series, Samsung YP-P2 and YP-Q1 and Nokia N96. "This is the first time that you can play BBC iPlayer TV programmes on a range of portable media devices," claims Anthony Rose, Head of Digital Media Technology, on the BBC Internet Blog.

For portable consumption of iPlayer content, programmes need to be downloaded (or 'sideloaded') from the iPlayer online then transferred onto the portable device via a USB port, unless the device has WiFi reception, in which case they can be streamed. Mr Rose adds concerning other platforms: "For our Mac and Linux users, don't despair: we have another release coming up very soon, aimed at improving your BBC iPlayer options - stay tuned for updates..."