Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The BBC's coverage promises to make you sick of the Olympics by the time it's done]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/the-bbcs-coverage-promises-to-make-you-sick-of-the-olympics-by/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/the-bbcs-coverage-promises-to-make-you-sick-of-the-olympics-by/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/the-bbcs-coverage-promises-to-make-you-sick-of-the-olympics-by/#comments Image

How much Olympics is too much Olympics? The BBC aims to find out at this year's London 2012 games, by offering up "the most comprehensive coverage ever," a list that includes 2,500 hours of coverage via the broadcaster's site and up to 24 live HD streams. Live coverage will be offered up for every sport and each sport, athlete, venue and country will have its own page on the site. The BBC will also be providing a free mobile app, a mobile browser site and apps for connected TVs -- 3D and Super Hi-Vision coverage is a bonus. Check out an explanatory video about the new video player after the break, as well as some scheduling information in the source link below. And maybe think about a training regimen to get ready to watch this summer's games.

Continue reading The BBC's coverage promises to make you sick of the Olympics by the time it's done

The BBC's coverage promises to make you sick of the Olympics by the time it's done originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsbbcconnected tvConnectedTvhdpostcrossLondon 2012london 2012 olympicsLondon OlympicsLondon2012London2012OlympicsLondonOlympicsmobile browserMobileBrowsermobilepostcrossolympicsps3sky tvSkyTvtivoukvideovirgin media tivovirgin media tv powered by tivoVirginMediaTivoVirginMediaTvPoweredByTivoTue, 15 May 2012 23:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC Sport app brings Olympics and more to Sony Bravia TVs, PlayStation 3 and Blu-ray players]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/bbc-sport-app-brings-olympics-and-more-to-sony-bravia-tvs-plays/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/bbc-sport-app-brings-olympics-and-more-to-sony-bravia-tvs-plays/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/bbc-sport-app-brings-olympics-and-more-to-sony-bravia-tvs-plays/#comments BBC Sports app coming to Sony Bravia TVs, PlayStation 3 and Blu-ray players

While Sony was busy launching its HX8 TVs over in the UK, it let slip another nugget of televisual goodness. That extra BBC Sport coverage that's planned for summer, and available as a TiVo app, will also be coming to UK owners of Bravia TVs (2011 and onwards,) PS3s, and even some Blu-ray players (at a later date). Those 24 channels of HD Olympic action will be translated into live streams, and there will be the usual array of catch-up options too. It's not just the Olympics, either, with most of the Beeb's sports coverage set to be available through the app, along with much of the additional content that was previously dealt with by the Red Button. Sony claims it has worked with the BBC to develop the app, and should be the first to launch it direct on TVs just in time for Wimbledon. It will likely find its way to other Smart TVs too, but no details on which at this time.

BBC Sport app brings Olympics and more to Sony Bravia TVs, PlayStation 3 and Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 May 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcBBC SportsBBC Sports appBbcSportsBbcSportsAppbravia appBraviaApphdpostminiolympicson demandOnDemandplaystation 3playstation 3 appPlaystation3Playstation3AppPS3PS3 appPs3Appsmart tvSmartTvsonysony braviasony bravia hx8SonyBraviaSonyBraviaHx8sportssports coverageSportsCoverageWed, 09 May 2012 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC to launch app companion for Antiques Roadshow, asks you to price up British heritage]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/antiques-roadshow-app-companion/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/antiques-roadshow-app-companion/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/antiques-roadshow-app-companion/#comments Antiques Roadshow companion app

Perennial evening schedule-filler Antiques Roadshow will launch a new companion app in the UK, connecting PCs, smartphones, tablets and BBC's red button feature on TVs to the show, as it goes out live. It's shaping up to be very different to the existing PBS app, this time combining your incredulity over whether a painting is really worth that much with a quiz format. You'll be able to guess the value against the clock, with separate amateur and expert levels. (We're all experts when it comes to 18th century pottery, right?). It's the Beeb's first public launch of its companion feature, following closed trials with shows like Frozen Planet. When it eventually launches in September, you'll be able to poll the rest of the British Isles to see what they reckon before you make your decision. Until then, we're stuck vocalizing our disbelief at the TV.

Continue reading BBC to launch app companion for Antiques Roadshow, asks you to price up British heritage

BBC to launch app companion for Antiques Roadshow, asks you to price up British heritage originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiquesantiques roadshowAntiquesRoadshowappBBCbeebcompanion appCompanionApphdpostminismartphonetabletTVUKFri, 04 May 2012 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Browse John Peel's legendary record collection, travel back in time]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/browse-john-peels-legendary-record-collection-travel-back-in-t/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/browse-john-peels-legendary-record-collection-travel-back-in-t/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/browse-john-peels-legendary-record-collection-travel-back-in-t/#comments Browse John Peel's legendary record collection, travel back in time

The Peel Sessions -- those are three blissful words to any music enthusiast. John Peel's BBC radio show was the stuff of legends. It launched entire careers and created a legacy of eclectic and intimate musical snapshots by our favorite artists. Can you imagine exploring his record collection? Well, now you can. The Space has created a wonderful site that lets you browse the late DJ's record archive one virtual shelf and album cover at a time -- complete with links to iTunes and Spotify. It looks and feels like the real thing, and provides a fantastic journey back in time. Only the letter A's been cataloged so far -- additional letters will be added (one each week) over the coming months. This is your chance to discover music curated by a man with impeccable musical taste over a period of four decades. Just follow the source links below.

Browse John Peel's legendary record collection, travel back in time originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 07:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albumsarchiveBBCBBC radioBbcRadiobrowsingcatalogcollectioniTunesJohn PeelJohnPeelmusicpeel sessionsPeelSessionsradio showsRadioShowsrecordsSpotifyWed, 02 May 2012 07:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Londoners mourn as teletext goes dark, a victim of the DTV transition]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/londoners-mourn-as-teletext-goes-dark/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/londoners-mourn-as-teletext-goes-dark/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/londoners-mourn-as-teletext-goes-dark/#comments Londoners mourn as Teletext goes dark, a victim of the DTV transition

Despite the many advantages of digital broadcast television, the transition is separating Europeans from a reliable source of information known as teletext. Citizens of London are the latest to experience the loss, as analog signals in the region were switched off just yesterday. Ceefax, a service of the BBC, has provided millions of Britons with news, sports, weather, television listings, subtitles and games for the past 38 years, and is now accessible only in Kent, Sussex, north-east England and Northern Ireland. Soon, it may cease to exist altogether.

Seen as a precursor to the internet, teletext is a free service that's heavily rooted in analog PAL signals, where small packets of data are sent in the vertical blanking interval, which is otherwise unnoticed by viewers. Because the information is broadcast, users were never subject to network congestion, and only needed to wait a brief moment for their desired page to be transmitted -- more advanced televisions even cached this information locally. As part of the airwaves, the service is naturally free, and in that sense, it lacks a suitable replacement. As with all progress, however, there are casualties, and teletext was an unfortunate bystander. Those who cherished the service can take a moment to relive the memories in the links below.

Londoners mourn as teletext goes dark, a victim of the DTV transition originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Analog ShutoffAnalogShutoffbbcbroadcastceefaxdtvdtv transitionDtvTransitionenglandeuropelondonover the airOverTheAirteletexttelevisiontvukThu, 19 Apr 2012 00:42:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC Sport connected TV app launches on UK TiVos, brings BBC News along]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/bbc-sport-connected-tv-app-launches-on-uk-tivos-brings-bbc-news/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/bbc-sport-connected-tv-app-launches-on-uk-tivos-brings-bbc-news/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/bbc-sport-connected-tv-app-launches-on-uk-tivos-brings-bbc-news/#comments BBC Sport connected TV app launches on UK TiVos, brings BBC News alongAs a part of the BBC's run up to this year's Olympics, it is bringing new approaches to broadcast technology in a number of ways including 3D, online streaming, multiple HD channels and now, connected TV apps. Today it's launching a BBC Sports app for connected TVs that bring in new interactive features via the BBC Red Button which will first appear on Virgin Media's TiVo platform, along with a port of its BBC News app. First up for the interactive treatment? F1 racing, starting with the Chinese Grand Prix this weekend. In the app viewers can access live coverage of the race, highlights from previous races, and multifeed coverage of the race including in-car cameras and driver trackers. There's a video demo and press release embedded after the break (viewable in the UK only), and the Sports app is expected to hit more devices before the Olympics starts, although it's unclear which ones.

Continue reading BBC Sport connected TV app launches on UK TiVos, brings BBC News along

BBC Sport connected TV app launches on UK TiVos, brings BBC News along originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbbcbbc newsbbc sportsBbcNewsBbcSportsconnected tvConnectedTvf1hdpostminiLondon Olympicslondon olympics 2012LondonOlympicsLondonOlympics2012olympicssportstivoukvirgin mediavirgin media tivovirgin media tv powered by tivoVirginMediaVirginMediaTivoVirginMediaTvPoweredByTivoWed, 11 Apr 2012 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC Olympic coverage to include 24 live HD channels available on TVs, phones, PCs and tablets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/bbc-olympic-coverage-includes-24-live-hd-channels/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/bbc-olympic-coverage-includes-24-live-hd-channels/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/bbc-olympic-coverage-includes-24-live-hd-channels/#commentsBBC Olympic coverage to include 24 live HD channels available on TVs, phones, PCs and tabletsThe BBC has home field advantage for the 2012 Olympics, and it's revealing more details about how it plans to broadcast over 2,500 hours of live sports on 24 channels that viewers can watch pretty much anywhere. Director Roger Mosey indicates it started out as a way to watch all 24 streams on the BBC Sport website via PCs or mobile devices, but has been expanded to offer the streams through television operators as well. So far Sky and Freesat are confirmed in, while Freeview users can punch up two extra channels via the program guide or red button. On this side of the Atlantic, the most recent news is that NBC Sports Network (formerly Versus) will be right alongside the broadcast NBC channel (which has its own streaming plans in combination with YouTube) with a "record" amount of Olympic coverage. It could air as many as 300 hours of content from London, as well as some of the Olympic Trials. Hit the source links below for more details, we'll probably be hearing much more before the Olympic Flame makes its way to the stadium July 27th.

Continue reading BBC Olympic coverage to include 24 live HD channels available on TVs, phones, PCs and tablets

BBC Olympic coverage to include 24 live HD channels available on TVs, phones, PCs and tablets originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 Olympics2012OlympicsbbcfreesatfreeviewhdhdpostcrossLondon OlympicsLondonOlympicsnbcnbc sportsnbc sports networkNbcSportsNbcSportsNetworkolympicsred buttonRedButtonskysportsstreamingukusversusWed, 04 Apr 2012 18:08:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC News Online adapts mobile site to smartphone demands, doesn't discriminate against specs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/bbc-news-online-adapts-mobile-site-to-smartphone-demands-doesn/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/bbc-news-online-adapts-mobile-site-to-smartphone-demands-doesn/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/bbc-news-online-adapts-mobile-site-to-smartphone-demands-doesn/#comments Image

Worried what your smartphone says about you? The Beeb isn't. That venerable British broadcasting institution is adopting a "four screens" strategy, with the overarching goal of creating a mobile news site that embraces devices of all specs, sizes and prices. Known as 'responsive design,' the company's back end will reportedly tackle the task of figuring out the specific demands of your phone or tablet and then deliver a touch-screen optimized site suited to your unit's particular profile. The changes, set to affect about 26 percent of BBC News Online's traffic, haven't been given a firm scheduling as of yet, with a tentative rollout on track to hit simpler phones first, while the more robust features, reserved for more capable tech, set to come later. According to Head of Product, Chris Russell, it's all part of a "wider 'under the bonnet' project" aimed at spreading the News division's reach to all corners, especially those less fortunate areas where internet access can "be crucially important to their lives." Hit up the source below to read Russell's full take on this move towards digital universality.

BBC News Online adapts mobile site to smartphone demands, doesn't discriminate against specs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCBBC NewsBBC News OnlineBbcNewsBbcNewsOnlinefour screens strategyFourScreensStrategymobile sitemobilepostminiMobileSiteredesignresponsive designResponsiveDesignWed, 28 Mar 2012 05:21:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC iPlayer app finally launches for all UK Xbox 360s]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/bbc-iplayer-app-xbox-360/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/bbc-iplayer-app-xbox-360/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/bbc-iplayer-app-xbox-360/#comments ImageAll of those Kinect-enabled Xbox 360 video apps Microsoft has been promising since last year's dashboard update continue to slowly leak out, and the latest is the BBC iPlayer. Already long available on the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3, UK gamers finally have access to the catalog of titles on any major console they choose. The Xbox 360 supports HD streams and, of course, voice and gesture control courtesy of that little add-on, however unlike many of the services on Microsoft's box, this one is available to all users with or without an Xbox Live Gold subscription. Platforms that are next up for iPlayer's blessing? Sky AnyTime+ is confirmed for later this year while a Windows Phone 7 is reportedly being developed. Check after the break for a couple more shots of the interface, plus a video demo for users on the appropriate side of the pond.

Continue reading BBC iPlayer app finally launches for all UK Xbox 360s

BBC iPlayer app finally launches for all UK Xbox 360s originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbbcbbc iplayerBbcIplayerconsolegaminghdpostcrossiplayerkinectmicrosoftskystreamingukvideowindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7xbox 360Xbox Live GoldXbox360XboxLiveGoldTue, 20 Mar 2012 05:48:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC's Director-General confirms instant video on-demand store is coming]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/bbc-director-general-confirms-video-on-demand-store/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/bbc-director-general-confirms-video-on-demand-store/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/bbc-director-general-confirms-video-on-demand-store/#comments BBC's Director-General confirms iTunes competitor is on the way
Just last week, rumors regarding the BBC's purported iTunes competitor were making the rounds. Now, thanks to Director-General Mark Thompson, we can confirm that it is indeed in the works. Currently known around the British offices as "Project Barcelona," the service is expected to be an à la carte media offering, allowing you to "purchase a digital copy of a program to own and keep for a relatively modest charge." Speaking of which, movies, TV shows and specials are expected to start at £1.89 and may be available minutes after they're broadcast on TV, though we've yet to hear an official word on pricing. The Broadcasting Corporation chief went on to say this isn't "a second license-fee by stealth or any reduction in the current public service offering from the BBC, it's the exact analogy of going into a high-street shop to buy a DVD." He didn't, however, give any deets on when we can expect the service to launch.

BBC's Director-General confirms instant video on-demand store is coming originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 23:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc itunes competitorBbcItunesCompetitorbritainBritish Broadcasting CorporationBritishBroadcastingCorporationcontent distributionContentDistributionenglandhdpostminiiplayeritunesitunes competitorItunesCompetitorMark ThompsonMarkThompsonmediamedia storeMediaStoreproject barcelonaProjectBarcelonatv showsTvShowsUKvideo on demandvideo on-demandVideoOn-demandVideoOnDemandvodWed, 14 Mar 2012 23:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Is the BBC the next contestant in the quest to take on iTunes?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/is-the-bbc-the-next-contestant-in-the-quest-to-take-on-itunes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/is-the-bbc-the-next-contestant-in-the-quest-to-take-on-itunes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/is-the-bbc-the-next-contestant-in-the-quest-to-take-on-itunes/#comments BBCPaidContent is claiming the BBC has some pretty advanced plans to launch a video market, one meant to compete directly with the iTunes of the world. According to its source, the British Broadcasting Corporation plans to offer its vast back catalog of movies, TV shows and specials as £1.89 downloads. Though much of its newer material is already licensed through BBC Worldwide, older content is not. The idea is to make all of that material available digitally and through its own branded service. The public broadcaster even plans to offer producers a larger chunk of the profits (roughly £0.40 per episode) in an effort to get a leg up on its potential competitors. Of course, these plans could still collapse if negotiations with independent producers fall through. Or, the plans could be less grand and far more preliminary than we've been led to believe. Still, don't be shocked it the iPlayer starts telling you to buy old episodes for a couple of quid in the next few months.

Is the BBC the next contestant in the quest to take on iTunes? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCbritainBritish Broadcasting CorporationBritishBroadcastingCorporationcontent distributionContentDistributiondownloadable mediaDownloadableMediaenglanditunesmedia storeMediaStorepublic broadcastingPublicBroadcastingFri, 09 Mar 2012 04:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Virgin Media TiVo rolling out Red Button interactive TV services for Premier League and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/03/virgin-media-tivo-rolling-out-red-button-interactive-tv-services/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/03/virgin-media-tivo-rolling-out-red-button-interactive-tv-services/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/03/virgin-media-tivo-rolling-out-red-button-interactive-tv-services/#comments While there's no doubt that Virgin Media customers have taken well to the company's TiVo HD DVR offering, so far switching has meant giving up certain interactive TV services supported elsewhere. they're getting one back now, as the company announced it's kicking off the rollout of Red Button interactivity to the TiVo on Sky Sports HD, letting footy fans catch more extended highlights of Premier League games. There's more on the way too, with support planned for the upcoming F1 channel and BBC services in April. Check out the press release after the break for more details on what will be supported and when, assuming one will be watching the games on TV instead of diving into hooliganism, or whatever it is fans of football do, we'll keep our handegg thank you very much.

Continue reading Virgin Media TiVo rolling out Red Button interactive TV services for Premier League and more

Virgin Media TiVo rolling out Red Button interactive TV services for Premier League and more originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 04:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcdrvhd dvrHdDvrhdpostminiinteractive tvInteractiveTvskysky sportssky sports f1 hdSkySportsSkySportsF1Hdtivoukvirginvirgin mediavirgin media tivovirgin media tv powered by tivoVirginMediaVirginMediaTivoVirginMediaTvPoweredByTivoSat, 03 Mar 2012 04:07:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/bbc-3d-london-olympics-plans-include-one-live-sporting-event-da/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/bbc-3d-london-olympics-plans-include-one-live-sporting-event-da/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/bbc-3d-london-olympics-plans-include-one-live-sporting-event-da/#commentsThe Beeb has finally detailed its plans for 3D broadcasts during the London 2012 Olympic Games this summer, and unfortunately for fans of the technology, the content available for live viewing will be pretty limited. The BBC's site lists the Opening / Closing ceremonies and the men's 100m dash for its experimental coverage... and that's it. At the end of each day a "highlights package" will be available, but we're still not sure what other sports will be included yet. This approach harkens back to NBC's 24 hour tape delayed HD broadcasts of 2004, and according to director Roger Mosey, is mostly due to limited capacity. If the BBC is using one of its HD channels for the free-to-air 3D broadcast, then it takes away an HD channel for another event at the same time, so the ceremonies have the advantage of not blacking out any other coverage. In the US, it's possible things could be different if 3D broadcasts are made available on a dedicated events channel as Versus nee NBC SportsTalk has done before, but we'll wait to hear what NBC has planned and hope Usain Bolt doesn't false start again.

BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100m dash100mDash2012 london olympics2012 Olympics2012LondonOlympics2012Olympics3d3d sports3d tv3dSports3dTvbbchdhdpostminiolympicssportstvukThu, 16 Feb 2012 18:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/roku-adds-bbc-iplayer-channel-as-it-starts-shipping-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/roku-adds-bbc-iplayer-channel-as-it-starts-shipping-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/roku-adds-bbc-iplayer-channel-as-it-starts-shipping-in-the-uk/#comments Just as Netflix is nearly ubiquitous on media streaming platforms in the US, BBC's iPlayer is pretty much a default app in the UK so it's no surprise to see it show up on Roku's boxes just as they start shipping across the Atlantic. As detailed in the press release after the break, those shiny new Roku LT and Roku 2 XS hockey pucks are well on their way to punters who've shelled out £50 / £100, respectively, with over 40 available channels. Unfortunately, that announcement doesn't extend to global iPlayer support outside the UK and Republic of Ireland, so we'll have to catch up on Inside Men some other way.

Continue reading Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK

Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbbc iplayerBbcIplayerhdpostminiiplayerirelandmedia streamerMediaStreamerrokuroku 2roku 2 xsroku ltRoku2Roku2XsRokuLtset-top boxSet-topBoxshippingstreamingukFri, 10 Feb 2012 03:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/sky-anytime-achieves-impossible-will-carry-iplayer-and-itv-pl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/sky-anytime-achieves-impossible-will-carry-iplayer-and-itv-pl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/sky-anytime-achieves-impossible-will-carry-iplayer-and-itv-pl/#comments Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player)Sky's burgeoning Anytime+ VOD platform is getting a hefty boost today. It was previously open only to customers who also hitched to Sky Broadband, but that restriction's being gently relaxed: opening it up to all five million Sky+HD box owners. It's also somehow sweet-talked deadly rivals BBC and ITV into letting their offerings onto the platform -- with ITV Player arriving tomorrow and iPlayer slated for arrival later in the year. Head past the break for the official line while we sit here and grumble about the company buying up all the UK rights to Mad Men and charging a kings ransom.

Continue reading Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player)

Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnytimeBBCBBC iPlayerBbcIplayerhdpostminiiPlayerITV PlayerItvPlayerNews CorpNewsCorpPull VODPullVodPush VODPushVodSkySky AnytimeSky Anytime PlusSky Anytime+SkyAnytimeSkyAnytime+SkyAnytimePlusVideo on DemandVideoOnDemandVODMon, 30 Jan 2012 09:46:00 EST<![CDATA[New BBC iPlayer stats chart the rise of 'connected' TV viewing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/bbc-iplayer-stats-show-more-connected-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/bbc-iplayer-stats-show-more-connected-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/bbc-iplayer-stats-show-more-connected-devices/#comments Thanks to widespread adoption and excellent cross-platform availability, the BBC's ubiquitous iPlayer is the perfect gauge of online viewing habits. New usage figures for December throw up little in the way of surprises, but still make impressive reading. The good old computer remains tops-of-the-client-pops for Brits, but smart TVs are taking a bigger slice of the (187 million) total requests, 7 million in fact -- a 1,000% year-on-year increase. More mobile telly-addicts saw smartphone and tablet views rise to thirteen million and ten million respectively, a growth of 163 and 596 percent. With 2012 offering ever more top gear and phones to chose from, we're expecting this trend to continue for some time yet. Square-eye stat-fans can hit up the source for the full breakdown. Hint: lots of Eastenders.

New BBC iPlayer stats chart the rise of 'connected' TV viewing originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbchdpostcrossInternetipadiphoneiPlayeriplayer appIplayerAppsmartphonestatisticsstreamingtop of the popsTopOfThePopsuser dataUserDataTue, 17 Jan 2012 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC launches news app for Sony connected TV, joins Samsung and Panasonic]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/bbc-launches-news-app-for-sony-connected-tv-joins-samsung-and-p/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/bbc-launches-news-app-for-sony-connected-tv-joins-samsung-and-p/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/bbc-launches-news-app-for-sony-connected-tv-joins-samsung-and-p/#comments
Trading tradition for tech, the BBC has officially launched its news app for Sony connected TVs -- joining the ranks of its other offerings made for Samsung and Panasonic displays. With a third TV app under its belt, the Beeb is already talking about launching a fourth HTML-based variant designed to access all the newsy goodness from Virgin Media's TiVo boxes. Recently trading its Flash site for an HTML5 upgrade and launching its iPlayer for iPhone app in the UK, there's no doubt Austin Powers won't even recognize the joint when cryogenically unfrozen. Check out the tribute track after the break.

Continue reading BBC launches news app for Sony connected TV, joins Samsung and Panasonic

BBC launches news app for Sony connected TV, joins Samsung and Panasonic originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsbbcBritish Broadcasting CorporationBritishBroadcastingCorporationconnected TVconnected TVSConnectedTvConnectedTvsflashhdpostcrosshdpostminiHTML5ipadiphonemobiletabletUKvideoSun, 08 Jan 2012 05:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Sinde Law brings SOPA-like restrictions to Spain]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/sinde-law-brings-sopa-like-restirctions-to-spain/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/sinde-law-brings-sopa-like-restirctions-to-spain/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/sinde-law-brings-sopa-like-restirctions-to-spain/#comments The Spanish government has passed legislation aimed at cracking down on websites illegally sharing digital content. Called the Sinde Law, it will create a new government commission that Spanish right holders can engage when they feel that a site is illegally distributing their content. After an alleged infraction, the commission examines the complaint and determines if, under the new statute, legal action is necessary. Should a site be found in violation, the case is passed to a judge and the decision is made either to shutter the offending website, take action against the site's service provider or dismiss the complaint altogether. The BBC reports that the entire process, from first report to final decision, should take no more than ten days. Open internet activists have voiced concerns about the breadth and implications of the law. United States residents will recognize many of the arguments for and against the Sinde Law in light of the SOPA Act (Stop Online Piracy Act) debate that's been raging here in the United States for several months.

Sinde Law brings SOPA-like restrictions to Spain originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Angeles Gonzalez-SindeAngelesGonzalez-sindeBBCBBC NewsBbcNewscopyrightIDC ResearchIdcResearchinfringementInternetLawNewsSindeSinde LawSindeLawSOPASpainSpanishStop Online Privacy ActStopOnlinePrivacyActWed, 04 Jan 2012 05:03:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC moves towards HTML5 for websites, tells Flash it'll still be friends]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/bbc-moves-towards-html5-for-websites-tells-flash-itll-still-be/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/bbc-moves-towards-html5-for-websites-tells-flash-itll-still-be/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/bbc-moves-towards-html5-for-websites-tells-flash-itll-still-be/#comments Even the British occasionally have to change with the times. Following a study stating that 80 percent of all web video is now compatible with HTML5, the BBC has formally adopted the standard for videos on the desktop and mobile versions of its website. The full roll-out across BBC.com follows a pilot program in which the broadcaster tested HTML5 on the Health section of the site. According to Electronista, the BBC has been working with HTML5 delivery systems throughout 2011 to build its iPlayer apps for the iOS. In other news, the BBC has just texted Flash and said it's totally open to staying friends and meeting up for coffee sometime.

BBC moves towards HTML5 for websites, tells Flash it'll still be friends originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidBBCBritish Broadcasting CorporationBritishBroadcastingCorporationdesktopFlashFlash PlayerFlashPlayerHTML5iOSminipostmobileThu, 22 Dec 2011 02:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix snags classic BBC shows in UK deal]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/netflix-snags-classic-bbc-shows-in-uk-deal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/netflix-snags-classic-bbc-shows-in-uk-deal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/netflix-snags-classic-bbc-shows-in-uk-deal/#comments Netflix's British charm offensive continues, in preparation for its launch in there early next year. The latest signing is with BBC Worldwide and offers up classic BBC shows like Torchwood, Spooks and Fawlty Towers in return for an undisclosed sum deposited into the public broadcaster's coffers. The license only covers streaming rights to viewers in the UK and Ireland, but Netflix US already has some of the BBC's back catalog and iPlayer should hopefully bring fresher material our way soon. PR after the break.

Continue reading Netflix snags classic BBC shows in UK deal

Netflix snags classic BBC shows in UK deal originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCBBC showsBBC WorldwideBbcShowsBbcWorldwideBritish IslesBritishIslesdigital licensingdigital rightsDigitalLicensingDigitalRightsFawlty TowersFawltyTowershdpostminiIrelandnetflixnetflix UKNetflixUkspooksstreamingtorchwoodTV showsTvShowsUKTue, 20 Dec 2011 05:46:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC launches iPhone iPlayer app in the UK, adds 3G streaming to its mobile site]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/bbc-launches-iphone-iplayer-app-in-the-uk-adds-3g-streaming-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/bbc-launches-iphone-iplayer-app-in-the-uk-adds-3g-streaming-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/bbc-launches-iphone-iplayer-app-in-the-uk-adds-3g-streaming-to/#comments While international viewers have had around a week to play with the new dedicated iPhone app, the Beeb has finally launched its iPlayer in its native UK. Replacing the browser-based player of old, it now allows you to stream both radio and TV shows through a 3G connection. The new app also adds HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) which allows itself to tweak the stream quality depending on your signal strength and hopefully allowing you to catch up on Top Gear uninterrupted. Like its overseas version, the new iOS app also throws in AirPlay streaming to Apple TV. Android and Symbian fans shouldn't feel too overlooked; The BBC are promising to enable 3G to all compatible devices through its mobile web version very soon, with a dedicated 3G-friendly Android app being primed for the new year.

[Thanks Michael]

BBC launches iPhone iPlayer app in the UK, adds 3G streaming to its mobile site originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 07:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g streaming3gStreamingairplayappsbbcbbc iplayerhdpostcrossiosiphoneiplayer appIplayerAppipod touchIpodTouchminipostmobilemobilepostcrossukTue, 13 Dec 2011 07:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Global BBC iPlayer app gets squeezed down to iPhone / iPod Touch size]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/global-bbc-iplayer-app-gets-squeezed-down-to-iphone-ipod-touch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/global-bbc-iplayer-app-gets-squeezed-down-to-iphone-ipod-touch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/global-bbc-iplayer-app-gets-squeezed-down-to-iphone-ipod-touch/#comments While US viewers continue to wait for the expat-edition Global BBC iPlayer app, BBC Worldwide has announced a new version launching December 8th specifically for iPhones and iPod Touches. Like its big brother app for the iPad, this free download lets subscribers stream or download shows for offline viewing, as well as stream video to the Apple TV via AirPlay. Whole new categories of programming are coming online soon including music, arts and culture, and radio, and now it can all fit in one's pocket. Check the gallery for a couple more screenshots, or after the break for a press release with all the applicable pricing and regional information that's available.

Gallery: Global BBC iPlayer app for iPhone, iPod Touch

Continue reading Global BBC iPlayer app gets squeezed down to iPhone / iPod Touch size

Global BBC iPlayer app gets squeezed down to iPhone / iPod Touch size originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbbcbbc iplayerBbcIplayerglobalhdpostcrossiosiphoneiplayer appIplayerAppipod touchIpodTouchmobilemobilepostcrossukTue, 06 Dec 2011 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC brings global iPlayer iPad app to Canada, one step closer to the US]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/bbc-brings-global-iplayer-ipad-app-to-canada-one-step-closer-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/bbc-brings-global-iplayer-ipad-app-to-canada-one-step-closer-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/bbc-brings-global-iplayer-ipad-app-to-canada-one-step-closer-to/#comments BBC Worldwide isn't quite ready to debut its "global" iPlayer app for the iPad here in the US yet, but now it's a bit closer after updating to v1.2.5 and becoming available in Canada. The app debuted back in July bringing iPlayer streaming access to tablets across Western Europe, before taking its programmes to Australia back in September. It will cost Canadians $8.99 per month for access BBC shows like Fawlty Towers, Whitechapel, and Hustle, but viewers in all 16 territories with access can snag one free episode per day through December 25th. The Hollywood Reporter indicates this is all part of a year long pilot phase with a next step of opening it up to US audiences, so those with patience don't need to put on their snowshoes and move to the Great White North just yet.

Continue reading BBC brings global iPlayer iPad app to Canada, one step closer to the US

BBC brings global iPlayer iPad app to Canada, one step closer to the US originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleaustraliabbcbbc iplayerBBC WorldwideBbcIplayerBbcWorldwidecanadaglobalhdpostminiipadipad appIpadAppiplayerstreamingtabletThu, 01 Dec 2011 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[2012 London Olympics Super Hi-Vision broadcast coming to select US, Japan, UK locations]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/2012-london-olympics-super-hi-vision-broadcast-coming-to-se/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/2012-london-olympics-super-hi-vision-broadcast-coming-to-se/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/2012-london-olympics-super-hi-vision-broadcast-coming-to-se/#comments While Super Hi-Vision isn't expected to bring its 7,680 x 4,320 resolution (16x more detail than your 1080p display, for those keeping count) home for several years, the NHK and BBC have confirmed it will be available for public screenings next year during the 2012 London Olympics. Screening dates have been arranged for three countries (Japan, UK, and US), and it appears domestic viewers will want to plan on visiting the Washington D.C. area next July / August to get a taste of the 33 megapixel video and 22.2 channel surround sound for themselves. Next year's Games have already put extensive 3D coverage on the schedule and NBC has promised every event will be available for viewing live as it happens for the first time, so there's plenty for everyone to look forward to. The only question now? Whether or not that silly false start rule can be changed so we don't face the prospect of a men's 100m dash final without Usain Bolt in it.

2012 London Olympics Super Hi-Vision broadcast coming to select US, Japan, UK locations originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 Olympics2012Olympics33mpbbchdpostminijapanlondon olympicslondon olympics 2012LondonOlympicsLondonOlympics2012nbcnhkolympic gamesOlympicGamesolympicsshvsportssuper hi-visionSuperHi-visionukultra hdtvUltraHdtvuswashington d.c.WashingtonD.c.Sun, 13 Nov 2011 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC celebrates 75 years of 'high definition' TV this weekend]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/04/bbc-celebrates-75-years-of-high-definition-tv-this-weekend/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/04/bbc-celebrates-75-years-of-high-definition-tv-this-weekend/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/04/bbc-celebrates-75-years-of-high-definition-tv-this-weekend/#commentsWhile you're enjoying all your 720- and 1080-line television broadcasts, this weekend it's time to reach back and remember the first "high-definition TV" that went into service at Alexandra Palace in London 75 years ago. Back in the '30s "HD meant an upgrade over the original systems, to resolutions of more than 240-lines. When the BBC debuted service (to some 400-odd viewers) it actually used two systems, one with 405 interlaced lines, and another mechanical system with 240 progressive lines of resolution. The studios are still there and open for tours so if you're in town you may want to stop by and pay respects Saturday or Sunday. If you're looking for more historical background from a distance, there's a magazine article with a breakdown and plenty of pictures of old cameras and sets linked below.

BBC celebrates 75 years of 'high definition' TV this weekend originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>75 years75Yearsalexandra palaceAlexandraPalacebbchdhdpostcrosshdtvhistorylondonukFri, 04 Nov 2011 04:12:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC's global iPlayer app adds AirPlay streaming, should just be on Apple TV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/bbcs-global-iplayer-app-adds-airplay-streaming-should-just-be/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/bbcs-global-iplayer-app-adds-airplay-streaming-should-just-be/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/bbcs-global-iplayer-app-adds-airplay-streaming-should-just-be/#comments British expats and international fans of BBC television alike can now stream some Gavin & Stacey to their televisions (past season 1 anyway, which is on Netflix and Amazon Prime Instant Video), as long as they're properly equipped. The global iPlayer app for iPad has been updated with AirPlay streaming (those in the UK however, have no such luck so far) so once users update to iOS 5 and buy an Apple TV box, they're in business. Of course, this would all be much simpler if iPlayer were just available on the Apple TV itself (without XBMC or other hacks), but no one asked us, did they?

BBC's global iPlayer app adds AirPlay streaming, should just be on Apple TV originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 02:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airplayappappleapple ipadapple tvAppleIpadAppleTvbbcglobalhdpostminiipadiplayeriplayer appIplayerAppstreamerstreamingtabletukSat, 22 Oct 2011 02:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft reveals new TV providers including Verizon and Comcast coming to Xbox 360 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/microsoft-reveals-new-tv-providers-on-xbox-360-in-the-us-and-int/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/microsoft-reveals-new-tv-providers-on-xbox-360-in-the-us-and-int/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/microsoft-reveals-new-tv-providers-on-xbox-360-in-the-us-and-int/#comments Just as the rumors indicated, Microsoft is bringing video from a number of providers beyond the ones it initially announced to the Xbox 360 in its fall update, including big guns like Verizon and Comcast. While Verizon is promising "a selection" of its live TV channels on the Xbox 360 as expected, Comcast is only bringing its Xfinity TV video on-demand offerings (no AnyPlay powered live TV -- yet) to subscribers when it launches "in the coming months." Other notable providers include Lovefilm (UK, Germany), BBC TV (UK), HBO Go, and Syfy. As promised during E3, the services integrated with Xbox will offer support for search across all available video, as well as support for Kinect voice and gesture controls. The universal search is looking good since it pulls together various services into one UI (as we discussed on our podcast yesterday), but the reality is content providers and geographical limits on what services you can pick from are still throwing up walls between users and content. Check after the break for PR detailing what you'll be able to access and where, as well as a video intro to all the tasty new TV services.

Gallery: Xbox 360 TV integration

Continue reading Microsoft reveals new TV providers including Verizon and Comcast coming to Xbox 360 (video)

Microsoft reveals new TV providers including Verizon and Comcast coming to Xbox 360 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbingbreaking newscomcastdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall dashboard updatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdateFallDashboardUpdate2011fios tvFiosTvgesture controlGestureControlhbo goHboGohdpostcrossiptvlovefilmmicrosoftsocialtvverizon fiosVerizonFiosverzionvideovideo streamingVideoStreamingvoice controlVoiceControlxboxxbox 360xbox livexbox live tvXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveTvxfinityxfinity tvxfinity vodXfinityTvXfinityVodWed, 05 Oct 2011 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Google TV coming to the UK within six months]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/google-tv-coming-to-the-uk-within-six-months/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/google-tv-coming-to-the-uk-within-six-months/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/google-tv-coming-to-the-uk-within-six-months/#comments Google TV Hey! Britain! Guess what? You're getting Google TV! Try to temper your excitement, we know this is a big day for you, but there's still a bit of a wait ahead. According to the Telegraph and the Daily Mail, Google is aiming to deliver its set-top software to the UK sometime in the next six months. Eric Schmidt is expected to announce the plans at the Edinburgh Television Festival (which starts today), likely including integration of BBC's iPlayer and ITV's Player. Sadly we don't have any more details yet regarding a specific launch date or hardware, but we wouldn't be shocked if it's timed to coincide with the release of the Honeycomb version of Google TV.

Google TV coming to the UK within six months originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbbcbbc iplayerBbcIplayerbritainedinburgh television festivalEdinburghTelevisionFestivaleric schmidtEricSchmidtGooglegoogle tvGoogleTvhdpostcrossitvitv playerItvPlayerukFri, 26 Aug 2011 08:47:00 EST<![CDATA[3G coverage survey gives British smartphone users little to smile about]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/3g-coverage-survey-gives-british-smartphone-users-little-to-smil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/3g-coverage-survey-gives-british-smartphone-users-little-to-smil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/3g-coverage-survey-gives-british-smartphone-users-little-to-smil/#comments The UK has plenty of endearing olde worlde attributes, but its lack of fast mobile data access isn't one of them. The country has yet to enter the LTE era and, according to a crowdsourced survey by the BBC, it's still plagued by "not spots" where you can't get 3G reception either. More than 40,000 Brits downloaded a tailor-made Android app that recorded their local street level access and their results proved that many city centers and rural areas are effectively no-go swamplands for smartphone users -- although coverage was good over 70- to 80-percent of Her Majesty's territory. It's about time we did a similar survey in the US. Oh, and check out the source link to watch a Galaxy II-owning village vicar vent his frustrations in the politest possible way.

3G coverage survey gives British smartphone users little to smile about originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 01:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3G coverage3G data3gCoverage3gDataBBCBBC NewsBbcNewsBritaincrowdsourcecrowdsourcedcrowdsourcingdata accessDataAccessmobile dataMobileDatamobilepostcrossQueen VictoriaQueenVictoriasurveyUKThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC iPlayer app gets a new look on the PS3 now, other devices later]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/bbc-iplayer-app-gets-a-new-look-on-the-ps3-now-other-devices-la/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/bbc-iplayer-app-gets-a-new-look-on-the-ps3-now-other-devices-la/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/bbc-iplayer-app-gets-a-new-look-on-the-ps3-now-other-devices-la/#comments While we keep waiting for the BBC to release a version of its iPlayer on this side of the Atlantic, it's already upgrading UK PlayStation 3s with a brand new interface. Designed to be navigated by any standard remote, the main focuses are personalization and enhanced navigation to avoid scrolling through long lists, as well as bringing over synced iPlayer Favourites from the PC. The new UI is built on HTML5 and CE-HTML with an eye towards rolling it out easily on other devices soon, but there's also plans for a version built with Adobe Flash and AIR technology. Check after the break for a quick video demo of the new features which sadly does not include a new episode of Top Gear (UK version) -- we checked.

Continue reading BBC iPlayer app gets a new look on the PS3 now, other devices later

BBC iPlayer app gets a new look on the PS3 now, other devices later originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobeairbbcflashhtml5iplayerplaystationplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sonystreaming videoStreamingVideoukvideoMon, 08 Aug 2011 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Americans rule in-flight internet adoption -- for now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/americans-rule-in-flight-internet-adoption-for-now/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/americans-rule-in-flight-internet-adoption-for-now/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/americans-rule-in-flight-internet-adoption-for-now/#comments It doesn't get more American than gnawing on a doughnut sandwich while watching Toddlers in Tiaras, right? Well, apparently, the only thing more American is engaging in these two acts while connected to in-flight internet. In a recent BBC article, Gogo's Jon Cobin said at least 1,200 commercial aircraft flying over these here amber waves of grain offer up WiFi, while there are only 100 [commercial] flying machines serving on-board connectivity in the rest of the world. Delta's just announced full, fleet-wide WiFi connections on domestic flights, while most other major US carriers offer internet access on all or some of their planes. As the BBC points out, that could have something to do with the slow roll out of satellite-based systems -- many American airlines depend on Gogo's land-based services. Unfortunately for you die-hard patriots, however, acceptance of satellite broadband seems poised to take flight in the near future. At least we'll always have Eden Wood.

Americans rule in-flight internet adoption -- for now originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmericaBBCbroadbandGogoIn Flight InternetIn Flight WiFiIn-flight internetIn-flightInternetinflight broadbandInflightBroadbandInFlightInternetInFlightWifiinternetWiFiwireless internetWirelessInternetWed, 03 Aug 2011 14:17:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC releases 'global' iPlayer app for European iPads, €7 per month]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/bbc-releases-global-iplayer-app-for-european-ipads-7-per-mon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/bbc-releases-global-iplayer-app-for-european-ipads-7-per-mon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/bbc-releases-global-iplayer-app-for-european-ipads-7-per-mon/#comments The wonders of iPlayer are no longer the reserve of the Brits. As of today, iPad users in 11 other countries across Europe can subscribe to the service for €7 per month or €50 per year. That equates to $10 -- just about living up to the Beeb's promised maximum price. The subscription grants access to a wealth of TV classics, like Fawlty Towers and Only Fools & Horses, as well as unwitting comedies like EastEnders. Some sort of motoring series by the name of Top Gear is also available, for those who like cars and middle-aged men in pointy shoes. The app will allow for downloading as well as streaming, and marks a "pilot phase" for the service, which should hopefully reach the former colonial outpost of America before too long. Full details in the PR after the break.

Continue reading BBC releases 'global' iPlayer app for European iPads, €7 per month

BBC releases 'global' iPlayer app for European iPads, €7 per month originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 05:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appAppleBBCBritainBritishiPadiPad appIpadAppiPlayeriPlayer appIplayerAppmoviesstreamingTVThu, 28 Jul 2011 05:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Virgin Media TiVo gets an iOS app, adds BBC iPlayer catch-up streams]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/virgin-media-tivo-gets-an-ios-app-adds-bbc-iplayer-catch-up-str/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/virgin-media-tivo-gets-an-ios-app-adds-bbc-iplayer-catch-up-str/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/virgin-media-tivo-gets-an-ios-app-adds-bbc-iplayer-catch-up-str/#comments The Virgin Media TiVo isn't done adding new features, as a staff member revealed that starting today the box has access to catch-up content from BBC's iPlayer. That comes just a few days after it followed up the launch of an Android remote DVR scheduling app with one for the iPhone, so some of the predictions we'd heard earlier may be coming true. The iPlayer links should be live now, hit the source link to grab the app from iTunes.

Virgin Media TiVo gets an iOS app, adds BBC iPlayer catch-up streams originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplebbccatch-upCatch-up TVCatch-upTvhdiosiphoneiplayerremote dvr schedulingRemoteDvrSchedulingtivovirginvirgin mediavirgin media tivovirgin media tv powered by tivoVirginMediaVirginMediaTivoVirginMediaTvPoweredByTivoTue, 19 Jul 2011 10:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Planet Earth Special Edition Blu-ray arrives October 4th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/planet-earth-special-edition-blu-ray-arrives-october-4th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/planet-earth-special-edition-blu-ray-arrives-october-4th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/planet-earth-special-edition-blu-ray-arrives-october-4th/#comments

Warner has officially revealed the launch date and pricing for refreshed editions of the epic Planet Earth series on Blu-ray and DVD. There are two versions planned, the Limited Collector's Edition pictured above with the globe packaging, and a Special Edition in more every day trim. The MSRP for the LCE is $99 and the Special Edition runs $79 when both arrive October 4th, check out the official list of extras after the break.

Continue reading Planet Earth Special Edition Blu-ray arrives October 4th

Planet Earth Special Edition Blu-ray arrives October 4th originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcblu-raydiscoverydocumentaryhdlimitec collectors editionLimitecCollectorsEditionplanet earthPlanetEarthspecial editionSpecialEditionwarnerwarner home videWarnerHomeVideFri, 08 Jul 2011 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wimbledon NetMix lets you turn down on-court grunts in favor of staid commentary]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/wimbledon-netmix-lets-you-turn-down-on-court-grunts-in-favor-of/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/wimbledon-netmix-lets-you-turn-down-on-court-grunts-in-favor-of/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/wimbledon-netmix-lets-you-turn-down-on-court-grunts-in-favor-of/#comments Wimbledon, typically a quiet leafy suburb in the great urban sprawl of London, tends to get a little noisier around this time of the year as the world's top tennis players descend upon it with a grunt and a huff of exertion. It's precisely those un-British howls of effort that the BBC is offering to filter out for you with a new Wimbledon NetMix tool. It's a simple audio mixing slider, available to BBC Radio 5 Live listeners, that adjusts the balance between ambient on-court sound and the soothing timbre of commentators' voices. The technology's enabled by the guys and gals at Fraunhofer, who were nice enough to do it for free, and is being introduced in response to a great many complaints received by broadcasters about the primal screaming that's accompanied this year's matches. If the reaction to the NetMix slider is positive, it could find further job opportunities on the Beeb's iPlayer or in coverage of other sporting events.

Wimbledon NetMix lets you turn down on-court grunts in favor of staid commentary originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 04:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobbccommentaryfraunhofergruntgruntingnetmixradiosoundsportsportstenniswimbledonwimbledon netmixWimbledonNetmixThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft-led consortium to trial super WiFi network across the pond]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/microsoft-led-consortium-to-trial-super-wifi-network-across-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/microsoft-led-consortium-to-trial-super-wifi-network-across-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/microsoft-led-consortium-to-trial-super-wifi-network-across-the/#comments British mobile bandwidth hogs won't have to curb their data enthusiasm anytime soon if a scheduled 'super WiFi' trial minds it manners. Led by Microsoft and backed by the UK's biggest TV providers, this roided-up wireless network surfs along the spare 150MHz spectrum that terrestrial television avoids. Christened the 'white spaces,' networks abroad (and in the US) maintain these unused frequencies to prevent signal interference, but with MS' Dan Reed calling spectrum "...a finite natural resource," operators don't have much else to mine. Set for testing in Cambridge -- chosen for its dense cluster of buildings old and new -- this repurposed TV signal walks through walls its weaker mobile brethren smack into (at up to 16Mbps, no less!). With a similar British Telecom rollout already underway in Scotland, we'd say the tech has an imminent Anglo-future -- pity the US can't seem to unravel the red tape fast enough for a homegrown build-out.

[Image credit via ZDNet UK]

Microsoft-led consortium to trial super WiFi network across the pond originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCBritish Sky BroadcastingBritish TelecomBritishSkyBroadcastingBritishTelecomBSkyBBTMicrosoftMicrosoft super WiFiMicrosoft white spacesMicrosoftSuperWifiMicrosoftWhiteSpacesmobile broadbandmobile broadband UKmobile broadband white spaces UKMobileBroadbandMobileBroadbandUkMobileBroadbandWhiteSpacesUksuper WiFiSuperWifiUKwhite spacewhite spacesWhite spaces UKWhiteSpaceWhiteSpacesWhiteSpacesUkMon, 27 Jun 2011 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung Smart TV platform installed base passes two million, adds BBC News app]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/samsung-smart-tv-platform-installed-base-passes-two-million-add/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/samsung-smart-tv-platform-installed-base-passes-two-million-add/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/samsung-smart-tv-platform-installed-base-passes-two-million-add/#comments While finding out precisely how many people are actually using its apps (over 100 million downloaded) is still tricky, Samsung has proudly announced there are over two million units out there packing its Smart TV platform. That count includes over 730,000 units in North America alone, and according to the company, outpaces the initial uptake of LED lit TVs. Of course, having a Samsung Apps store is nothing without apps to put in it, and over the UK there's a new BBC News app that is currently available exclusively on the Samsung platform. If you've picked up one of the TVs with the dual sided remote, let us know how it's going so far in the comments below.

Continue reading Samsung Smart TV platform installed base passes two million, adds BBC News app

Samsung Smart TV platform installed base passes two million, adds BBC News app originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbbcbbc newsBbcNewsconnected tvConnectedTvhdsamsungsamsung appsSamsungAppssmart tvSmartTvMon, 20 Jun 2011 13:36:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC picks Wimbledon for its first 3D broadcast in July]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/08/bbc-picks-wimbledon-for-its-first-3d-broadcast-in-july/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/08/bbc-picks-wimbledon-for-its-first-3d-broadcast-in-july/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/08/bbc-picks-wimbledon-for-its-first-3d-broadcast-in-july/#comments More than three years after testing out 3D production during a Rugby Six Nations match the BBC is ready to send out its first 3D broadcast during the men's and women's singles finals at Wimbledon. UK viewers can catch 3D tennis via the BBC HD feed on Freeview, Freesat, Virgin or Sky, July 2nd and 3rd. Here in the US ESPN 3D has already announced plans to air those matches, plus the men's semifinal, both live and reaired at more convenient local times. While Panasonic featured its 3D tech last week during the French Open at Roland Garros, Sony is going to be working the dials at Wimbledon along with the BBC as the network undertakes "a 3D TV editorial experiment." 3D Focus TV has more details like the channel listings and a behind the scenes look at a 3D promo shot to advertise movie theater screenings that will also be available during the event. So far Sky has been way out in front of the 3D push in the UK while the BBC is taking a more cautious approach, but since Wimbledon was one of the first sporting events aired in color on the BBC, it's no surprise this pops up as a test event in the run up to new broadcast technologies emerging during the London Olympics next year.

Continue reading BBC picks Wimbledon for its first 3D broadcast in July

BBC picks Wimbledon for its first 3D broadcast in July originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d tv3dTvbbcbbc hdBbcHdespnespn 3dEspn3dsonysportstennistvukvideowibmledon 2011Wibmledon2011wimbledonWed, 08 Jun 2011 08:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Boxee hits London with updated iPlayer app, Blinkbox video and new Media Server]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/08/boxee-hits-london-with-updated-iplayer-app-blinkbox-video-and-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/08/boxee-hits-london-with-updated-iplayer-app-blinkbox-video-and-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/08/boxee-hits-london-with-updated-iplayer-app-blinkbox-video-and-n/#comments Boxee threw a meetup in London last night where it revealed the return of its BBC iPlayer app and upcoming addition of streaming movies and shows from Blinkbox. This continues a trend that has seen the addition of Headweb video on-demand for Scandinavian regions and Databazaar's library of Bollywood flicks in the last week. Boxee had iPlayer before but it stopped working after some technical changes, while the blog post reveals Blinkbox support is expected arrive around the end of the year. Boxee flashed its iPad app at the party too, promising to bring the existing experience to your tablet plus the ability to send video back to a Boxee Box for watching on the big TV screen. Finally, VP of marketing Andrew Kippen mentioned streaming locally stored video to the iPad from new Boxee Media Server software. While adding Plex-style functionality is nice by itself, we're just excited to see any kind of reference to the software for PC and Macs that seems to have been ignored since Boxee got into the Box business.

Boxee hits London with updated iPlayer app, Blinkbox video and new Media Server originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 07:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebbcblink boxBlinkBoxboxeeboxee boxboxee for ipadboxee media serverBoxeeBoxBoxeeForIpadBoxeeMediaServeripadiplayerukWed, 08 Jun 2011 07:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Planet Earth Special Edition Blu-ray set coming to the US from BBC America]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/planet-earth-special-edition-blu-ray-set-coming-to-the-us-from-b/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/planet-earth-special-edition-blu-ray-set-coming-to-the-us-from-b/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/planet-earth-special-edition-blu-ray-set-coming-to-the-us-from-b/#comments Last year, BBC revisited its acclaimed Planet Earth series of nature documentaries with a Special Edition Blu-ray set, and now BBC America shop has revealed the set will also be released on this side of the pond. While the discs shipped last fall in the UK and were region free, they were encoded in a 1080i50 format that most US Blu-ray players (most notably the PlayStation 3) don't support. The new special editions fix one of the quirks of the original releases by opting for two 50GB BD50 discs instead of four 25GB platters, and adding new high definition extras including audio commentaries and options to isolate either the music or sound effects. There's still more to see however, with content from Planet Earth's Greatest Moments, Snow Leopard: Beyond the Myth and a sneak peek at the upcoming Frozen Planet project on the discs. The set also includes the standard def extras omitted from the original high definition releases, that consists of several Making Of featurettes and a three part Planet Earth - The Future documentary, and two new standard definition extras. There's no word on a release date or pricing, but if you've been drooling over the UK rereleases (which apparently suffered a problems on a couple of the discs in initial runs but have since been fixed) a little patience should pay off nicely -- if you've forgotten how amazing the footage is or somehow missed out the first time around, check out the original trailer after the break.

Continue reading Planet Earth Special Edition Blu-ray set coming to the US from BBC America

Planet Earth Special Edition Blu-ray set coming to the US from BBC America originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 May 2011 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080i5050gbbbcbbxc americaBbxcAmericabd50blu-raydocumentaryhdplanet earthplanet earth special editionPlanetEarthPlanetEarthSpecialEditionTue, 31 May 2011 15:03:00 EST