What is BBC iPlayer?

BBC iPlayer is where you can watch BBC programmes online.

You can watch all of our TV channels online and nearly all of our programmes are available to watch shortly after they've been broadcast for a set amount of time. We also curate shows from the BBC Archives and offer live events and online exclusives.

How do I use BBC iPlayer?

As long as you’re in the UK you can enjoy BBC iPlayer on a computer, phone, tablet, smart TV or games console using the BBC iPlayer app (connected TV, mobile and tablet only) or the BBC iPlayer website.

Find out how to use BBC iPlayer on your device in the following pages:

You can also download most programmes on the mobile/tablet app. Downloaded programmes can be played when you’re not connected to the internet or when you're overseas, so download before you go. You can find more information about downloading in the How can I watch programmes when I’m offline? page.

Do I need to sign in?

Yes, you do. One of the benefits of signing in is a more personalised experience. Find out more in the Personalisation in BBC iPlayer page.

Visit BBC account help if you need support signing up for a BBC account. 


How do I play a programme?

Once you've found the programme you want to play, just click on the play icon (highlighted below). You might see a short trailer for another BBC programme before the episode begins. 

Watching live and just missed the start of a programme? You can use Live Restart to go back to the beginning of a programme that’s being shown on TV right now. Find out more about Live Restart in the How do I use Live Restart? page.

image from a programme on BBC iPlayer with the 'play' button highlighted

Do you have any further questions or need help?

Try searching using the search bar above or browsing via the categories listed below. You can also have a look at our What do all of these words mean? page for information on the terms and phrases we use on this website. 

If you still can’t find the help you’re after, you can contact us using the on-screen Contact Us button at the bottom of our FAQ pages. Or use live webchat to talk to someone from the BBC iPlayer team in real-time. Find out more about using live webchat in our Can I contact you using Live Chat? page.