A Shift in Digital Strategy: BBC iPlayer Downloads App to End on Desktops
In an evolving media landscape, BBC’s iPlayer app stands as a testament to the adaptability of content consumption, offering the convenience of downloading shows for offline viewing, a service also provided by competitors like Netflix, Disney Plus, and Prime Video.
However, in a move reflective of changing user behaviors and cost considerations, the BBC has made the “difficult decision” to discontinue the iPlayer Downloads app on PC and Macs from 2024. This decision stems from the minimal usage the app has seen coupled with the financial implications of its maintenance.
Impacted Devices by the iPlayer Downloads App Closure
Users of certain devices will need to adapt to the upcoming changes, as the closure of the iPlayer Downloads app will impact:
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
- MacBook Pro
- MacBook Air
- MacBooks
Despite this change, streaming live and on-demand shows will remain possible on these devices through the iPlayer section on the BBC website.
Timeline for the BBC iPlayer Downloads App Sunset
As the BBC charts its course towards the app’s sunset, it has already initiated steps to phase it out.
Since February 2, the BBC ceased offering the iPlayer Downloads app to new users on PCs and Macs, including the full list of devices specified. Following that, as of March 11, users were no longer able to download new programs.
Content that had been previously downloaded before the March cut-off can still be viewed. However, a significant date looms on the horizon: from April 8, the BBC iPlayer will fully cease operation on PCs and Macs. At this juncture, the app will become inaccessible for users on the specified devices.
Mobile Access Remains Unchanged
While desktop-based users navigate this digital transition, mobile users can take solace in unaffected access. The iPlayer app will continue to operate normally on smartphones and tablets, which includes popular devices like iPhones, Samsung Galaxies, and iPads, preserving the functionality of downloading shows and films for these users.
