BBC Prepares for Fewer Linear Channels as iPlayer Investment Grows

The BBC is preparing for a possible reduction in its number of linear television channels as it shifts more resources towards BBC iPlayer and on-demand viewing. Director-General Matt Brittin has indicated that the corporation will need to reconsider how it uses its broadcast portfolio as audiences increasingly move online.

Speaking at the Royal Television Society London conference, Brittin said the BBC is looking at whether maintaining its current range of linear services remains the best use of licence fee funding as the balance between live broadcast and on-demand viewing changes. No specific channel closures have been confirmed.

The BBC is also planning significant investment in iPlayer. Brittin has previously acknowledged that the platform has fallen behind international streaming services in areas such as technology and recommendations, and has proposed a future “iPlayer 2.0” with improved personalisation and a public service-focused recommendation system.

The potential changes come as the BBC works towards £500 million in savings, with up to 2,000 roles expected to be affected. The corporation has already said it will review its television and radio portfolio and reduce commissioning expenditure across Content, News and Nations.

BBC Three has been reported as one of the channels potentially facing closure, while BBC Scotland has also been subject to speculation. BBC Three previously moved online in 2016 before returning to linear television in 2022. However, the BBC has not confirmed that either service will close.

Brittin's comments underline the BBC's wider shift towards a digital-first model, with the corporation seeking to ensure its content reaches audiences through the platforms and viewing methods they increasingly use.