Ofcom has opened a consultation of the implementation of new laws designed to ensure audiences can easily find Public Service Broadcasters’ content on connected TV platforms.The new Media Act requires certain connected TV platforms to ensure that the PSBs’ TV apps – such as BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 stream, My5, STV player, S4C Clic – as well as their public service content, are available, prominent, and easily accessible to audiences.In turn, the PSBs must ensure that their TV apps make a significant contribution to the fulfilment of their individual public service remits.The Media Act gives the PSBs more flexibility and freedom in how they serve and meet the changing needs of UK audiences. For the first time, the PSBs will be able to use their online and on-demand services to meet their public service obligations. The Act requires the PSBs to set out how they will use each service to contribute to their obligations.In the first of two consultations launched Tuesday, Ofcom is setting out proposals for updating its guidance on the information provided in by broadcasters in their Statements of Programme Policy.The second will look at whether apps provided by the PSBs – the formal name is internet programme services (IPS) – satisfy the conditions to benefit from the new availability and prominence regime, and therefore should be designated. While BBC iPlayer will be automatically designated, Ofcom will designate the other PSB TV apps.The two consultations will run until 5pm on 25 March 2025.
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