Exclusive: BBC Considers Locking Down iPlayer for Non-Paying Viewers

The BBC has revealed that it is open to the idea of blocking iPlayer access for viewers who refuse to pay the licence fee. In an all-staff call, the corporation’s chief customer officer, Kerris Bright, discussed the possibility of locking down the popular streaming service.

Bright acknowledged that blocking iPlayer does not currently make sense, as it could lead to friction for viewers who do pay the licence fee. However, she stated that the BBC will continue to review this idea as streaming technology improves.

According to Bright, the vast majority of licence fee evasion is not related to iPlayer. She noted that the data suggests that blocking iPlayer would make it a difficult experience for people who are paying for the licence, and that it is not the silver bullet to generating more revenue.

The BBC is facing a funding crisis, with over half a million people opting out of the licence fee in the corporation’s most recent financial year. This has led to a significant gap between the number of people who use the BBC and those who pay the licence fee, with fewer than 80% of the UK population contributing to the £180 annual fee.

The BBC is currently in talks with the government about a new charter, which could lead to changes in the funding model. The corporation is considering a compulsory household levy, as well as extending the licence fee to include subscribers to streaming services like Netflix and Disney+.

However, the Motion Picture Association has already expressed its opposition to this plan, citing concerns that it could lead to a subscription-based model for the BBC. The BBC is not being prescriptive about what could replace the licence fee, but is advocating for a more sustainable funding model that takes into account the changing viewing habits of the British public.

In the meantime, the BBC is exploring ways to make it easier for people to pay the licence fee. The corporation is looking into new payment methods, including online payments and mobile apps.

As the BBC continues to navigate the challenges of funding its services, one thing is clear: the licence fee is no longer fit for purpose. The corporation must find a new way to fund its services, one that takes into account the changing needs and viewing habits of the British public.