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BBC plans pre-booking catch-up option BBC executives have issued a proposal to the BBC Trust for the introduction of a pre-booking option for its popular online catch-up service, iPlayer. The iPlayer currently allows users to download or stream BBC TV programmes broadcast over the previous seven days, but does not allow users to 'pre-book' a download. Explaining the thinking behind its proposal, the BBC said: • Pre-booking is a ‘pull’ rather than ‘push’ function in that it is users and not the BBC that select which content will be downloaded. However, the timing of such downloads is determined by the BBC. • After the user has pre-booked the programme the corresponding file will be delivered to the user’s computer at the optimum time for the user, the UK internet and the BBC. • File delivery may be ahead of the scheduled broadcast time; however, the user would be unable to view the programme before its broadcast slot, as the file would be protected by digital rights management software. • The rights window for a programme downloaded via pre-booking will be the same as if the programme had been downloaded on the day it is broadcast. In a statement, the BBC added: "Pre-booking is a relatively simple addition to the iPlayer that will bring benefits for users and, in terms of reduced costs, for ISPs, and that would have limited potential for negative market impact." The BBC Trust is seeking comment on the proposals from interested parties, prior to making taking a decision. Adam Benzine 3 Jul 2008 © C21 Media 2008 
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