Smartphones account for record-breaking iPlayer figures

The latest viewing figures for the BBC’s iPlayer were released earlier today, showing a record-breaking period for the online video service.

In January 2013, there were 272 million requests for iPlayer television and radio content, up over one quarter on the previous month.

Computers came out on top for streaming iPlayer content at a sizeable 127 million, accounting for almost half of all content streaming.

However, the research revealed that an increasing number of people are using smartphone and tablet devices to stream content, with 44 million people using their mobile to stream TV and radio content in January, almost four times the number recorded this time last year.

40 million people used tablets to stream content, which equates to 15% of all streaming.

5 million people used Smart TVs and connected devices to stream audio-video content on iPlayer, up 2 million since January 2012.

Dave Price, Head of BBC iPlayer, said: “BBC iPlayer had a record-breaking festive period, with performance driven by new mobiles and tablets unwrapped on Christmas Day, and it looks like these devices have yet to be put down.

“There were 272 million requests for TV and radio programmes in iPlayer throughout January, with TV requests from mobiles and tablets rocketing – and up 32% in just one month. We’ll build on this in 2013, ensuring audiences continue to enjoy watching and listening to their favourite BBC programmes whenever and wherever they are.”