Windows phone users finally have something to be thrilled about. So far they did not have access to TV and radio services. But with BBC and Microsoft confirming a deal, this will finally enable them to download iPlayer on to their handsets. So far only their Android, iOS and at times BlackBerry counterparts could only run it. But this latest deal with BBC has ensured that even Windows phone users will have access to it. The move came months after Microsoft agreed to pay the BBC a fee to use some of its online news stories within its Windows 8 desktop Bing Daily news app.
iPlayer Windows Phone app comes along with patented media Player plug-in allows users to access streamed feeds of its material. iPlayer allows the user to watch their favourite BBC TV show on the computer and now their phones too. An episode that was telecasted a week back could also be streamed and watched too.
As per the deal, Windows Phone Store will “soon” have iPlayer shortcut application. The shortcut will enable the BBC iPlayer Windows Phone app website to work via a live tile. The BBC’s effort for Windows Phone 7.5 and 8 reminds us of the struggle it went through to bring iPlayer to Blackberry 10.
The BBC spokesperson would not divulge any details nor would they reveal whether any money was involved in this deal. He went on to add that the organisation did not “comment on specific costs” relating it to its iPlayer agreements. However, BBC Global News spokeswoman was quick to add that this agreement was a “commercial content licensing deal” and completely separate to the iPlayer contract. The BBC is assigned with the job to expand its content, but there is limited funding to achieve this goal, thus there is a high possibility that Microsoft is paying for iPlayer to support Windows Phone.
BBC has never shed any light on iPlayer’s performances on mobile phones. But last January it made an exception and went public saying ”mobile and tablet use for TV programmes grew significantly over festive period”.
So, hopefully “soon” enough Windows phone will be seen streaming their favourite BBC TV shows.