BBC iPlayer Downloads App Closing Down: Users Urged to Watch Shows Before It’s Too Late
BBC iPlayer users have been warned to watch any shows downloaded on their app before it closes down on Monday. The dedicated BBC iPlayer Downloads app will stop working for good on PC and Mac.
Affected Users Told to Use Mobile App Instead
Bosses claim that not many people are using the app anymore so they made the “difficult decision” to pull the plug. Telly fans can continue to stream programmes as normal from the website but no longer keep them offline. The move doesn’t affect the iPlayer app on iOS and Android which will still allow offline downloads.
Why is the BBC iPlayer Downloads App Closing?
BBC iPlayer content is available on so many devices these days, including smart TV apps, via Sky and Virgin Media, on Amazon Fire Sticks, as well as phones and tablets. The broadcaster is under pressure to cut waste and save money – despite a recent TV Licence hike. According to the BBC, usage of the desktop downloads app is “low” so it’s hard to justify the cost of keeping it running. It’s not clear how much the BBC will save from ending the app. But it’s of little comfort to the fee-paying viewers who depend on it. They’ve been urged to switch to the iOS or Android app which still allows downloads, though desktop users say they hate the idea of using a smaller screen. Don’t forget, iOS and Android apps aren’t just for mobile – they work on tablets as well so if you have one this might be a way to keep downloading without being confined to a tiny screen.
How to Cut Streaming Bills with Top FREE TV
Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime don’t come cheap – and year on year subscription costs seem to go up. Fortunately there are loads of free streaming TV alternatives not everyone knows about. And we’re not just talking about BBC iPlayer and ITVX. Here are some free alternatives worth trying:
From Netflixs Scoop to Disney+ reality show Vanderpump Villa – the best new TV to stream