BBC launches iPlayer on the new Apple TV

The new Apple TV box

The BBC has launched an iPlayer app for the new generation of Apple TV, and has updated its mobile iPlayer apps to include BBC Store integration.

The Apple TV app goes live today, allowing users of the recently launched Apple streaming device to access BBC programming and exclusive iPlayer content.

Meanwhile, the updates to the BBC’s iPlayer mobile and tablet apps will allow signed-in members to stream BBC Store purchases directly from the app and receive personalised programme recommendations.

“Christmas is a popular time for viewers to come to BBC iPlayer, as they unwrap new devices and browse and discover the BBC’s fantastic Christmas programmes,” said head of BBC iPlayer, Dan Taylor-Watt.

“With the launch of iPlayer on new Apple TV, I’m delighted we’ve been able to give people another way of accessing the full breadth and range of BBC programmes. And, the updates to our mobile and tablet apps mean we can now deliver more personalised recommendations of BBC programmes to viewers, as well as the ability to stream BBC Store purchases directly from the iPlayer app.”

The BBC Store integration follows the launch of the download-to-own digital retail site last month. The store is a joint effort between the BBC’s commercial and public service arms and is accessible through the BBC’s iPlayer catch-up service as well as from a standalone website.

Apple first unveiled its revamped, next generation Apple TV box in September and started selling the device in October. The BBC confirmed plans to launch the iPlayer on the new Apple TV “in the coming months” in October.