BBC and Freesat expand beta iPlayer trial

The beta trial of BBC iPlayer is being extended to users with Humax HD and Humax+ Freesat devices.

The trial is the first time BBC iPlayer has been delivered on a subscription-free TV service. It was initially limited to a small number of users.

However, following positive feedback from this group and high levels of interest from Freesat users, the trial is expanding.

Although it is restricted to Humax digital boxes for the initial trial, the BBC and Freesat said the iPlayer will become available to all Freesat HD digital boxes and Freesat HD TVs over the coming months.

Emma Scott, Freesat’s managing director said: “I’m really pleased that we can expand the number of Freesat viewers who can access BBC iPlayer.

“With the ITV Player also due to launch on Freesat in the first half of this year, we will be the only TV platform to offer catch up services from both major broadcasters on a subscription-free basis and without the need to buy new equipment.

As well as having a Humax Freesat or Freesat+ digital box people will need a broadband service of at least 1 Mbits/sec.

Once the digital box box is connected, users can access BBC iPlayer via the red button service while watching any BBC channel. When the BBC Red Button homepage loads, users should type in the code 5483 and press OK.

A message will appear saying "Number not found", however, after a few seconds BBC iPlayer will load on screen.

Freesat’s website has detailed instructions on how to set this up as well as a help video.