The BBC may consider offering free and open use of the technologies that make up the successful BBC iPlayer in a way to prevent Channel 4 to gain a stake in the profitable commercial arm of the BBC, BBC Worldwide; forming part of a response to a public service broadcasting review by Ofcom, according to The Guardian.
If the plan gets approved, it would see the video on demand services offered by Channel 4 (4oD) and ITV (ITV Player) being rebranded as iPlayer.
Insiders over at the BBC believe that the technology behind the video on demand service is better than private sector rivals, and it is ready to become the industry standard. It is also offering access to its high-speed digital post-production network, believing that it would help reducing the costs in making television shows.
However, another plan also sees an independent trust overseeing BBC Worldwide if Channel 4 takes a stake in the company. Channel 4 is believed to be asking for some cash assistance, most likely from the license fee. Insiders have told The Guardian that the BBC is trying to protect the independence of its commercial arm.
Comments and Pingbacks
There is currently zero comments. Why not have your say now.