BBC iPlayer programme downloads finally coming to Mac and Linux users via Adobe AIR
Yes, that long-winded title pretty much sums up it up – Mac and Linux users who have been (im)patiently waiting for the BBC to develop software that will allow them to download programmes from iPlayer will soon see their wish come true.
The BBC has partnered with Adobe (makes a change from Microsoft) to launch an AIR version of the iPlayer software. As Adobe’s AIR platform is (allegedly) cross-platform, it should mean that any operating system capable of running it will be able to download content.
Initially available to BBC iPlayer Labs users, it will be rolled out to all users during the coming year.
I’m sorry to say that my experience of AIR on the Mac hasn’t been the best, so I’m a little sceptical that this will be a success, but if it means having the ability to download shows instead of streaming them and being subject to the ire of my broadband provider, I’ll give it a go.
What do you think? Has the BBC picked the best solution here?
Related posts: iPlayer chief talks Broadcast 2.0 | Sky adds iPlayer listings to Sky Player
