The BBC is permitting use of its iPlayer mobile apps over 3G mobile networks, ahead of its big 2012 Olympic Games mobile push.
iPlayer’s existing Android and iPad apps limited users to WiFi access only, to avoid giving consumers bill shock and network operators a traffic headache.
“We have worked closely with the network operators,” writes iPlayer’s mobile executive product manager David Madden. “We have also done a lot of work to improve the playback experience on portable devices and have rolled out HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) video infrastructure for the apps, which uses adaptive bitrate technologies.”
An update to the iPad app introduces the 3G feature, a new iPhone app is being introduced, the Android app will be updated in January and mobile web version will get 3G functionality, too.
The UK-facing iPlayer includes catch-up TV and radio programming from the last seven days, plus live channels.
The BBC will next year broadcast every bit of the London Olympics live and for catch-up, with mobile planned to be a major component of its delivery.