BBC iPlayer app finally released for Irish users

Finally, an end to Britain-dwelling friends boasting about the BBC’s iPlayer video service – an iPad app has launched for iPad users at last.

Added to the iPad App Store this morning, the app features the best BBC-produced content on the go, including Doctor Who, Blue Planet and even classics such as Fawlty Towers.

However, unlike its UK version, Irish users will have to pay a monthly subscription fee to access the video-on-demand service - €6.99 per month or €49.99 for a year.

“This is a unique and different product,” said Jana Bennett, president of BBC Worldwide networks and Global iPlayer.

“The Global iPlayer has a similar name, the same high standard look and feel and user experience, but that’s where the resemblance starts to end.”

The iPlayer service for the UK market, launched in 2007 and features shows live broadcasts, the previous seven days of programming on its channels. The global version will instead balance current BBC content with internationally-recognised classics.

“It’s a different proposition and a very different business model aimed at the international market,” said Ms Bennett. “The content is different, the underlying technology is different and so is the consumer and market need we’re addressing.”

The download is being launched in 11 European countries today and contains around 1,500 hours of content. In your face, TV3 Player app!