BBC now allowing iPlayer downloads to tablets, phones

The Guardian reports that the BBC is now allowing free mobile iPlayer downloads, which means the latest episodes of series such as Doctor Who and Top Gear can be downloaded to tablets and mobile phones. Unlike other streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, BBC iPlayer users will be able to download episodes for offline viewing.

The downloading capability will be rolled out to the iOS version of iPlayer first and should happen today. The BBC said an Android update will follow. The episodes can be kept on the device for 30 days. If an episode is watched, it'll remain on the device for seven days. The download will be available to be watched abroad, so you can load up your iPad or iPhone with TV to watch while on holiday, even if you venture to another country.