June 17, 2019

Ofcom has provisionally concluded that the BBC can go ahead with planned changes to BBC iPlayer, subject to certain conditions and guidance.

The BBC wants to change BBC iPlayer from a 30-day catch up service to one where programmes are available for 12 months as standard, and in some cases available for longer.

As required by the BBC Charter and Agreement, Ofcom undertook a BBC Competition Assessment to consider these plans. Ofcom has now published its provisional conclusions for consultation.

Ofcom has provisionally concluded that:

• with the UK broadcasting sector evolving, and audiences’ expectations changing, the BBC needs to keep pace;
• the proposed changes to BBC iPlayer would pose challenges for other public service broadcasters’ video-on-demand services. However, in Ofcom’s view, the changes could also deliver significant public value over time. They could increase choice and availability of public-service broadcast content, and help ensure the BBC remains relevant in the face of changing viewing habits; and
• the public value justifies the impact on fair and effective competition, and the BBC can proceed with its plans. This is subject to certain proposed conditions and guidance to ensure the BBC delivers future public value, and to mitigate against risks to fair and effective competition. Given its concerns, Ofcom also thinks it is important that future changes to BBC iPlayer are considered carefully.

Ofcom is now inviting views from interested or affected parties on its provisional conclusions by Wednesday 10 July 2019, and expects to publish its final decision by August 2019. To access the provisional conclusions, click here.