Accessibility
If I missed an episode of Eastenders and I missed the omnibus on Sunday, what would I do? I would go on this website http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/
"BBC iPlayer" is the BBC service that allows you to watch or listen to BBC Content on the internet or, if your device permits, download BBC Content using BBC iPlayer
It’s the same for ITV, C4 or Five, all of these channels have their very own website which allows you to go on and re-watch a programme you missed during the week. For the BBC this could mean TV or Radio; of course these aren’t the only channels that provide this service from MTV to Sky, most major channels provide an on demand format that allows you to watch back something you missed. And you don’t necessarily need to go online; certain satellite broadcaster’s provide that service through the TV. Although seen as another internet access you have the ability to watch shows missed through catch up via the designated channel.
Speaking of satellite broadcasting one of their main features is being able to allow their customers the ability to record programmes. Sure we could do this ourselves, with a VCR, video tape and timer if you’re not at home, but that’s an awful lot of work. It is now possible to have that all in one system; people who own a Sky+ box know that if they wish to record something they can with the touch of a button; that programme will now be saved on their Sky+ box for however long they please. Using a Sky+ box you can record two things simultaneously and watch a pre-recorded show; a show that you yourself may have recorded or perhaps it’s been recorded by Sky as a way to cater to your needs. Sky is of course not the only broadcaster to do this, their major competitors Virgin Media provides the exact same service.
Coming back to the internet there are of course other ways to watch TV programmes on it that you can’t perhaps get on BBC iPlayer, ITV player, 4oD etc. There are many sites dedicated to allowing people to catch a programme missed, unavailable in your country or not yet broadcasted in your country. Personally I use sites like sidereel.com & watch-series.com, these allow me to watch shows that are no longer on TV or are currently airing in the States and won’t show up on our TV’s until next year etc.
Improved & easier
Digital now allows for us to watch TV in HD and 3D, with certain broadcasting channels now choosing to have their own HD channels as another way for viewers to see their favourite programmes. For the most part this means purchasing an upgrade of your satellite provider so if you have Sky+, you would be more likely to buy the Sky+ HD box then buy the individual channels. The TV you own doesn’t necessarily matter as the Sky box will still work; however with the digital switchover on the horizon, stores are popping up that specialise in switching over your TV to digital so when the analog signal is turned off, even without satellite your TV will be able to pick up the digital signal.
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