Millions of households in the UK are increasingly turning to online streaming services instead of traditional TV methods such as using a TV aerial or satellite dish. Recent data provided by Sky indicates a significant rise in sales of its Glass TV and Stream Box, both of which rely on broadband technology. Additionally, the introduction of Freely, a new service offering live TV via the internet, has further expanded options for consumers.

The streaming trend continues to gain momentum due to the vast content libraries available for viewers, user-friendly interfaces, and convenient DIY setup processes. However, one persistent challenge faced by viewers, particularly during live sports broadcasts, is the noticeable delay in streaming services like BBC iPlayer, which can range from 30 to 40 seconds.

Sky has taken steps to address this issue by reducing latency on its streaming devices to just a few seconds through a recent software update. In response, the BBC has also acknowledged the latency concern and is actively working on reducing delays on its platform. According to the BBC, while progress has been made in decreasing the delay on iPlayer, it still lingers around 40 seconds, unlike the 8-10 second delay on broadcast services.

The BBC aims to enhance viewer experiences, especially during live sports events, by implementing “low latency streaming” solutions. To achieve this, the BBC is currently developing changes to its streaming services, with an opportunity for iPlayer users to participate in testing before the official release.

Users of 3rd and 2nd generation Amazon Fire TV Sticks, as well as owners of Samsung’s CU8000 and CU8500 TVs, can access the iPlayer Beta experience in their settings to test the reduced latency streaming feature. The trial version promises streams with minimal lag and will be available on BBC Two between 9 am and 5 pm for participants who have enabled ‘iPlayer beta’ and set their location to England or Scotland.

The BBC emphasizes that this trial period will help assess the performance of low latency streaming under real-world internet conditions. The BBC plans to expand the trial as confidence in the performance of the new streaming technology grows.