The BBC, ITV and BT have today joined forces to promote a common industry approach and consumer offer to deliver on demand TV over broadband (IPTV). The proposal, which is open for all public service broadcasters, device developers and ISPs, aims to develop a standards based open environment for broadband connected digital television (DTV) receivers.

The standard could bring about a new generation of subscription free devices, carrying free to air (Freeview) channels and a huge selection of on demand TV services like BBC iPlayer and ITV Player, as well as the potential for films, shows and interactive content from a range of other providers in standard and high definition:


The idea of standardising Freeview style TV and Internet TV (IPTV) services into a single box is interesting, although it's unclear how this would fit in with existing IPTV services from Tiscali TV and BT Vision.

Such a service/device could support a wide range of content providers and be promoted by all Internet Service Providers. The plans are currently subject to BBC Trust approval and public consultation. Details remain thin on the ground.