BC iPlayer is the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) video-on-demand and live streaming service. It’s a treasure trove of British TV, with news, dramas, documentaries, comedies and more. Whether you’re in the UK or abroad, BBC iPlayer is your key to the best of British TV.
Creating Your BBC Account
Before you can get into BBC iPlayer, you need to create a BBC account. Here’s how:
- Go to the BBC iPlayer website or app: Go to the BBC iPlayer website or download the app on your device.
- Click Sign In: Find the Sign In button, usually in the top right corner of the screen.
- Register Now: You’ll be asked to sign in or register. Click Register Now to create a new account.
- Enter Your Details: Fill in the required info, including your name, email address, date of birth and password.
- Accept the Terms: Read and agree to the BBC’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
- Verify Your Email: Check your inbox for a verification email from BBC and click the link to confirm your account.
Logging into Your BBC Account
Once you have an account, logging in is easy:
- Go to BBC iPlayer: Open the website or app.
- Click Sign In: Click the Sign In button.
- Enter Your Details: Enter your email address and password.
- Sign In: You’ll be signed in and ready to go.
BBC Subscription Plans
While most of BBC iPlayer is free to watch, you’ll need a TV licence if you want to watch or record live TV programmes as they’re being broadcast. A TV licence is required in the UK for anyone who watches or records live TV on any channel or device, not just BBC iPlayer.
If you’re outside the UK, you don’t need a TV licence to watch BBC iPlayer content. However, the content available may be different due to rights restrictions.
How to Pair BBC iPlayer with Your TV (bbc.com/tvcode)
Pairing BBC iPlayer with your TV is a great way to watch on a bigger screen. Follow these steps:
- Open BBC iPlayer on Your TV: Launch the BBC iPlayer app on your smart TV or streaming device.
- Find the TV Code: The app will show you a TV code.
- Go to bbc.com/tvcode: On a separate device (computer, smartphone or tablet), open a web browser and go to bbc.com/tvcode.
- Enter the Code: Type in the TV code on your TV screen.
- Sign In: If you’re not already signed in to your BBC account on the device, you’ll be asked to do so.
- Pair Your Devices: Once you’ve entered the code and signed in, your TV and device will be paired. You can now control iPlayer on your TV using the device.
Reset or Recover Your BBC iPlayer Password
Forgot your BBC iPlayer password? No worries. Here’s how to reset:
- Go to BBC iPlayer: Open the website or app.
- Click Sign In: Click the Sign In button.
- Need Help Signing In?: Below the sign-in form you’ll find this option. Click it.
- Enter Your Email: Enter the email address associated with your BBC account.
- Check Your Email: You’ll get an email with a link to reset your password.
- Create a New Password: Follow the instructions in the email to create a new password.
BBC iPlayer Tips
- Browse the Categories: BBC iPlayer has loads of content. Use the categories and search to find what you like.
- Add to Watchlist: Save programmes to watch later to your watchlist.
- Download for Offline: If you’re a UK resident with a TV licence, you can download many programmes to watch offline when you don’t have an internet connection.
- Subtitles and Audio Description: Use subtitles for the hard of hearing and audio description for the visually impaired.
- Live Events: BBC iPlayer often streams live events, such as sports and concerts. Look for the Live section to see what’s on.
So there you have it
BBC iPlayer is brilliant for anyone who loves British TV. With all this content and the easy to use interface, you can find new shows, catch up on old favourites and stay up to date with what’s going on. Whether you’re a lifelong Brit TV fan or just starting out, you’ll have hours of fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is BBC iPlayer free?
Much of the content on BBC iPlayer is free to watch. However, a TV license is required for live TV viewing or recording in the UK.
2. Can I watch BBC iPlayer outside the UK?
Yes, BBC iPlayer is accessible outside the UK, but the available content may vary due to licensing agreements.
3. How do I download programs?
UK residents with a TV license can download many programs for offline viewing.
4. Can I watch BBC iPlayer on my TV?
Yes, you can pair BBC iPlayer with your smart TV or streaming device for a big-screen experience.
5. What devices are compatible with BBC iPlayer?
BBC iPlayer is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.
6. Do I need a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer abroad?
While a VPN is not required, some users outside the UK choose to use one to access a wider range of content.