BBC gets green light to show programmes for 12 months on iPlayer

The BBC has said it is delighted that its iPlayer has got the go-ahead to keep shows for a year.

Programmes - such as hit drama Bodyguard - typically remain on the platform for a standard 30-day “catch-up” period.

However, the corporation sought to expand the service and regulator Ofcom has given the proposals the green light.

Read more: Provisional approval for iPlayer changes

The watchdog said that making the change could help ensure that the BBC “remains relevant”.

The decision means that shows on the iPlayer will be available for viewing for a year, and some will remain for even longer.

Ofcom said that it made its decision after carrying out a competition assessment, which looked at their public value provided by the BBC’s proposals, analysed the impact on competition and considered whether that public value justified any adverse impact.

The regulator said in a statement: “In line with our provisional view, we have concluded that the BBC’s proposed changes to BBC iPlayer could deliver significant public value over time.

“They could increase choice and availability of public-service broadcast content, and help ensure the BBC remains relevant in the face of changing viewing habits.”

Ofcom concluded that while there is likely to be "an adverse impact" on rival services, it will be outweighed by the public value.

Read more: TV licence needed to watch iPlayer

It said the increase in BBC iPlayer viewing could be “14%-24% for general content and 6%-9% for children's content”.

The BBC said that Ofcom’s decision was "great news", adding: "We will be able offer so much more to the public."

The iPlayer has proved to be a popular platform for viewers.

Bodyguard, Killing Eve and McMafia were the top programmes requested on the service in 2018.