11 March 2024 , 07:11
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Anyone who enjoys downloading BBC iPlayer content and then watching it when away from an internet connection could be in for a shock today. The hugely popular streaming platform announced last month that it was shutting down a version of its download application and that deadline kicks in from today.
It basically means anyone who uses a laptop or PC to get their fix of entertainment will no longer be able to place new content onto their devices to watch at a later date. This will be especially annoying for those who have, until now, used this service to catch up on favourites when there's no Wi-Fi or 4G/5G data connection available.
"We have made the difficult decision to close the BBC iPlayer Downloads application for PC and Mac, due to the low number of people using it and the cost required to keep it going," the BBC explained.
FULL LIST OF DEVICES AFFECTED
• All Apple MacBooks including MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models
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• All Windows PCs including models powered by Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Luckily, if you act fast you can still add new content today with the BBC confirming that anything added on Monday 11 March will continue to be available to view offline until Monday 8 April. After that date, the BBC iPlayer Downloads app will be closed for good and all downloads will stop working.
It's worth noting that you can still stream shows such as The Apprentice, The Traitors and Great British Menu on PCs, you just can't download them after tonight, March 11.
The BBC has also confirmed that the change does not affect downloads on the BBC iPlayer mobile or tablet apps which will continue to work as normal.
"This does not affect downloads on the BBC iPlayer mobile or tablet apps, and viewers can continue to stream programmes on BBC iPlayer on their PCs and Macs," the BBC added.