BBC iPlayer3G app launched for iPhone: Android users have to wait

The BBC has finally launched a dedicated iPhone app for its popular BBC iPlayer service, 10 months after releasing its initial Apple iPad and Android OS versions.

While iPhone and iPod users have been able to use the BBC’s catch-up TV service via its standard website, a stand alone app for the devices has been expected for some time.

The rejuvenated app (which will work across all iOS gadgets, from iPhones to iPods) also incorporates support for Apple AirPlay; software that lets the user stream content from their iTunes library around their home via speaker docks, stereos etc.

Executive product manager for BBC iPlayer on mobile avid Madden said: “"3G streaming is enabled in the iPhone and iPad apps and will shortly be coming to the mobile web version of BBC iPlayer for all supported devices."

Interestingly, the BBC tech team has worked with mobile operators to incorporate HLS technology (HTTP live streaming) into its 3G delivery model, which will deliver differing qualities of content to be streamed to a user dependent on the quality of 3G signal they are able to pick up.

This should allow more users to be able to enjoy the BBC iPlayer experience, while also helping mobile broadband suppliers cope with the load the popular service is expected to bring down on them.

Android users are still stuck with just a Wi-Fi service, but Madden promised a 3G update for the app soon. No figures are yet available about how data hungry the service will be though, so we advise anyone using the service to keep a close eye on their data limits when first using the upgraded BBC iPlayer app.