BBC iPlayer hits Xbox 360 roadblock
While the service runs for free on both Wii and PS3 consoles, Xbox 360 users will have to wait longer to view the BBC’s popular iPlayer streaming service on their consoles, after talks with Microsoft broke down.
Microsoft want to make the service available only to those users who pay for Xbox Live Gold accounts, joining services like Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm in the console's growing premium multimedia offering.
However, this causes a problem for the BBC, as it cannot charge for iPlayer content because of its public service remit.
It now seems the launch of the iPlayer has now been delayed indefinitely, which is a bit of a disappointment for Xbox 360 owners to say the least.
As we reported earlier, the iPlayer will soon be launching on Freesat and an improved iPhone version will soon be available as well.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed that it was keen to get the service on Microsoft's console, stating: "People clearly want the BBC iPlayer on their gaming consoles, and we don't think Xbox users are any different, so we've had discussions with Microsoft about bringing the service to the platform."
That's all we've got to go on for now, but here's hoping Microsoft sees the error in its ways and gives up access to iPlayer for free.
Is Microsoft just being greedy? Let us know your thoughts below.
Via: Gamesindustry.biz
Comments
marcharrison
2 years ago
YES! GREEDY GITS!
ray911
2 years ago
Typical Microsoft only after your money.
Yes the 360 is cheaper to buy in the shops but after that they want to bleed you dry.
Thankfully I have a PS3. I might get a Xbox if the make it Free.
hooman78
2 years ago
i'm really in 2 minds about xbox live. games like pro evo 2010 still run with glitches and other than the sky player there is no other reason that i would pay for gold membership. its a tough one but MS are not leaving a good taste in my mouth with their milking of me and you! if the PS3 gets sky player i will be saying ciao ciao to my lovely 360 and hello to true hi def gaming!!
britrock2k07
2 years ago
RAY11 is right, to begin with the xbox is cheaper to buy, but after youve paid for a wi-fi adapter, constant batteries for the controller, and gold membership its far more expensive than the ps3.as well as the ps3 having a better processor, blu ray player, free iplayer its amazing people still buy 360's.
Dynamic Webb
2 years ago
Facebook, twitter and last.fm should also be free on xbox live as they cost nothin' on iPhone, Mac and PC. Good for you BBC for not allowing Microsoft to charge for a free service.