BBC to trial TV content online

Thousands of viewers are to be given online access to BBC television programmes, including EastEnders and Top Gear, and movies thanks to new technology being billed as "the iTunes for the broadcast industry".

The BBC is looking for 5,000 broadband users to take part in a three-month content trial of its interactive media player - iMP - which allows internet users to download and watch TV and radio programmes.

Ashley Highfield, BBC director of new media and technology, said he wanted the iMP to become "the iTunes for the broadcast industry", with the content trial offering 190 hours of TV programming and 310 radio shows.

"IMP could just be the iTunes for the broadcast industry, enabling our audience to access our TV and radio programmes on their terms - anytime, any place, any how - Martini Media," Mr Highfield said.

"We'll see what programmes appeal in this new world and how people search, sort, snack and savour our content in the broadband world," he added.

Siemens Business Services, BBC Broadcast and Kontiki are working with the BBC on the content trial, assisting with technical and play out elements of the iMP service.

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