BBC iPlayer requires you to sign in to watch programmes. But why? Here's everything you need to know about BBC iPlayer sign-in, including how to register for an account and the benefits it brings.
In September 2016, the BBC outlined changes to its online strategy that included mandatory BBC account registration to use some of its services. BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds are two of the main services affected.
What you need to do to sign into BBC iPlayer
You need to sign in with a registered account when accessing BBC services online through the web or via the mobile apps.
The BBC doesn't require payment beyond the standard television licence fee that you need to pay to watch BBC broadcasting through TV or online.
What's the advantage to signing into BBC iPlayer?Â
The BBC explained in 2016 that by getting users to sign-in it could make the iPlayer platform more personalised, offering recommendations to users based on their viewing habits, alerts about specific programming or events and even watch a programme on one device and pick it up on another at the point you left off.
That means, because iPlayer knows who you are, it can sync your watching, enabling the popular "resume play" features that other commercial platforms offer.
These are features other video streaming services offer, like Netflix, but they generally require a subscription fee.
Critics suggest that it also enables the BBC to find and penalise those not paying their licence fees and while that is possible, with the Beeb itself admitting that email accounts can be cross-referenced to find those who are watching but not paying for the privilege, that isn't the main reason.
It promises that online surveillance is not being adopted and IP addresses of those watching will not be sought. In future it might implement systems whereby those not paying the licence fee cannot access BBC iPlayer, due to a Government request, but that is still in discussion.
What is a BBC account?
Formerly known as BBC iD, a BBC account has been a feature of bbc.co.uk for some time. You can register on the site and have your bbc.co.uk homepage customised to your own interests, including localised information, such as the weather.
The same account is used to sign into iPlayer and other online services.
Is a BBC account free?
A BBC account is totally free to sign up forif you're in the UK. You need to pay the TV licence fee, which costs £159 a year, in order to watch BBC iPlayer or any other TV programming in the UK, but that is required to legally watch television in this country, even if you never use iPlayer.
How do I get a BBC account?
All you have to do to get a BBC account is register for one at bbc.co.uk here.
If you already have an account, which you've used for the Beeb's website before, that will work. It doesn't require all of your personal details, just your date of birth, email address, gender and a password to use when you sign in each time.
You can also flesh out your profile with your name if you like.
You can also use the same account in Alexa to empower services through your Amazon Echo.
Check out our guide to the best TVs to buy today
Source : https://www.pocket-lint.com/tv/news/bbc/141025-why-you-need-to-register-and-sign-in-for-bbc-iplayer
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