The BBC will be allowed to increase the number of archive TV programmes on the iPlayer, with previous restrictions being lifted.
Since 2019, audiences have been able to access programmes on BBC iPlayer for 12 months from broadcast as standard. Older programmes are also available, such as past series of returning titles. But the amount of archive programmes has been limited.
The BBC plans to scrap these limits and increase the amount of older content on BBC iPlayer by publishing – subject to its financial and operational constraints – any title in line with its agreements with producers and underlying rightsholders.
Following an Ofcom review of the plans, it has confirmed the changes are ‘not material’. This means there’s no requirement for wider competition assessment or shorter assessment.
Rival broadcasters did not oppose the BBC’s plans.
However, Virgin Media O2 was concerned about the impact the increased amount of older content on the iPlayer would have on the UKTV pay channels. Virgin Media O2 claimed the UKTV pay channels were a ‘fundamental part’ of its pay TV offer. Ofcom disagreed. It noted that all seven UKTV channels only account for 5% of total viewing time on Virgin Media devices. The three Pay TV channels provided by UKTV – Alibi, Eden and Gold – make up 2% of viewing on Virgin Media devices. (BARB 28-day consolidated, 4+ individuals. H1 2022.)