The BBC has launched a consultation to gauge interest in providing access to shows for longer as well as opening up its historical content.
The majority of TV shows and films available on its iPlayer are currently available for 30 days from the date aired, but the BBC wants to extend this to 12 months, and make more of its archive available to stream.
The move would bring the service close to Channel 4’s ‘All 4’ service in the UK and US-based streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.
The consultation will begin with people in the industry and could continue into a Public Interest Test before a decision by Ofcom is made on the move.
“We know that in the future iPlayer will be the main way many people will want to watch the BBC,” said Charlotte Moore, the BBC’s director of content, as reported by Which?
“It already is for many younger viewers. These changes are about ensuring we continue to deliver value for money to licence fee payers – and meet expectations of viewers who want to watch full series whenever they choose to.’
The BBC’s consultation document on the issue warns the BBC must be able to adapt as the market changes, or it risks becoming irrelevant.