The BBC has announced they have finally created a version of the popular iPlayer that will work on Mac and Linux computers.
Although Mac and Linux users have had the ability to stream content for over a year, downloads were not available. With the new BBC iPlayer Desktop, both operating systems will be able to handle both streaming and downloads.
The latest version “has been written with Adobe’s AIR technology which aims to make it possible to create applications that can be downloaded to your computer, rather than just embedded in browser web pages as is possible with the widely used Flash software.”
The iPlayer has come under fire in Europe from ISPs who claim that users of the service clog bandwidth.
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According to the Nokia N-Gage website, users of the N81 mobile phone are now able to download the oft-delayed N-Gage mobile games platform as an open beta test.
The platform will allow mobile gamers to link up for multiplayer games and social elements in the same way Xbox Live does for Xbox 360 users.
The company says they are in the final stage before “full-scale deployment” and that the stage means increasing the user base.
For the beta, only the N81 and N 81 8GB are supported, as long as they are connected via service plans that support GPRS or have an accessible Wi-Fi connection. The company did note that the Chinese model of the phone is incompatible.
The games available now during the beta test are: Creatures of the Deep, Space Impact: Kappa Base, Block Breaker Deluxe and System Rush Evolution. 13 more titles will be released after full launch including FIFA 08, Brothers in Arms and The Sims: Pets.
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BBC Worldwide has announced it has struck a deal with Apple that will allow users in the UK to download a few top BBC shows from the popular iTunes platform.
Each show will cost 1.89 pounds (about $3.70 USD) and will include such popular shows as “Torchwood,” “Life on Mars” and “Spooks”. Users can then watch the show on their computers, on TV via the Apple TV device or on Apple handhelds.
The new deal follows in the BBC’s strategy to make its shows available for download after they have aired and the deal marks the first for a British broadcaster.
The downloads are available for free on BBC’s own iPlayer for 30 days after they air and then will be available for purchase on iTunes.
“We want to give audiences a wide variety of options on how and where to view their favorite BBC shows,” said Simon Danker, director of digital media at BBC Worldwide.
“With more people now choosing to watch TV shows on their iPods, fans of series such as ‘The Mighty Boosh’ and ‘The Catherine Tate Show’ can now enjoy those shows wherever they are.”
Apple VP Eddy Cue added that he believes the shows will be popular. “Television programming has been incredibly popular with iTunes customers in the U.K.,” said Cue. “We’re thrilled to add hit programming from the BBC with favorites including the latest ratings winner, ‘Ashes to Ashes.’”
