Programmes missing from on-demand TV service

Thanks to D Hendy for asking why some TV shows aren’t available on catch=up TV services:

“Tried to get a programme on BBC iPlayer, using BT Vision but was unable to get it.  I also tried to get a Channel 4 programme on 4OD, both on catchup, got no joy talking to BT.

I got both programmes on the internet. If I can get it on internet, then why can’t I get it on BT Vision? They only offer a few programmes, and their Drama selection is rubbish.”

Our response

You’re correct that not all programmes offered by catch-up services such as BBC iPlayer, itvPlayer, 4oD and Demand 5 are not always made available on all platforms. There are a number of reasons why this may be the case:

• Various content licensing and rights issues mean that some shows are not available.
• Some services only carry seven days of programming, whereas a service like 4oD and BBC iPlayer might offer a larger back catalogue on their website
• Issues with programme compatibility and format.

From what we understand, licensing is one of the more common issues. When a broadcaster buys a TV programme from a production company of studio, they are certain ‘usage rights’ associated with a show’s use. They may be licensed to broadcast the show, but not allow it to be streamed over the Internet, or there may be restrictions on how the content can be made available. This is typically why a lot of shows not made by the BBC (such as US series and movies) aren’t available on the BBC iPlayer or other catch-up services.

If the programme isn’t available, it’s likely that it’s not the fault of services such as BT Vision, Sky and Virgin – it’s more likely that the BBC / Channel 4 has been unable to provide the content.

What do I do?

The shows made available to services like BT Vision, Sky and Virgin are normally controlled by the broadcaster, and you’d need to contact the broadcaster to find out the precise reason why they have not made certain shows available on other platforms.

If the show is only available via the broadcaster’s website, then you can watch using a web browser, as opposed to on BT Vision.

Otherwise, you should contact the broadcaster to ask them why they have not been able to make the shows you’re after available to services luke BT Vision. Visit the broadcaster’s sites, in the examples you’ve given bbc.co.uk and channel4.com and select the “contact us” option.