BBC iPlayer

What can I watch on BBC iPlayer?

BBC programmes are generally available for a period after they’ve been broadcast, so you can use iPlayer to catch up on any shows you’ve missed.  Catch up TV: Never miss a BBC programme again as iPlayer allows you to catch up on content via the online service and apps. You now get 30 days to watch most shows after they’ve been shown on BBC channels, though some BBC Three and BBC Four programmes are available for much longer. News bulletins and sports coverage can be available for shorter periods.

Watch live TV: You can also use iPlayer to watch live BBC channels, including BBC One and BBC Two, over the internet. Select the TV Guide option from the homepage to see what’s on right now across all of the BBC’s channels. Streaming live TV will require a decent broadband connection – at least 1.5Mbps. Check whether your connection is up to par using our free broadband speed checker. BBC iPlayer Exclusives: These are programmes that are only available on iPlayer. These can be available for more than 30 days.

BBC iPlayer tips and tricks

TV guide: A really handy feature of iPlayer is the integrated TV guide. This lets you scroll back through the last seven days of television programmes that have been broadcast and catch-up on shows that you’ve missed. Available programmes are highlighted in white text, just click on what you want and start watching.

Watch in HD: If your broadband can handle it (the BBC recommends at least 3.2Mbps) then you can stream certain content in HD. Depending on the version of iPlayer you’re using, either select Watch in HD or toggle the HD on/off switch. You can also download programmes in HD to watch offline, although if you’re using your phone’s 3G connection, be wary of exceeding your data allowance.

Live Restart: If streaming live channels, a neat feature of iPlayer is being able to restart most live programmes from the beginning by clicking ‘Restart the current programme’. So, even if you come into a programme that’s been on for half an hour, you can just reload it to the start.

Search and favourites: If you know the name of the show you want to watch, you can use the search bar to find it. If it’s a programme in a series you know you’ll want to keep watching, simply click the star icon to save it to your personalised favourites page.

Enable subtitles: Most of the BBC’s shows can be streamed with subtitles enabled. Depending on the type of device you’re using, you can turn the subtitles on simply by clicking or tapping the ‘S’ symbol while the content is playing.