BBC takes on Netflix as it calls for a dedicated on-demand button on ALL TV ... trends now
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The BBC has taken on Netflix after demanding for a new 'on-demand' button on all UK TV remotes.
Manufacturers may soon be forced to add buttons for iPlayer, ITVX and Channel4 on TV controls as the broadcasting giant complained of 'fierce competition'.
In a letter to the House of Commons, the BBC said public service broadcasting (PSB) was 'falling behind' without a direct route to this content.
The bold move comes as branded Netflix buttons are widely used on TV remotes across the country, taking viewers to the popular service with a single press.
'Remote controls are a major gateway to content on TV sets and user interfaces – their importance demonstrated by fierce competition between the largest content providers for branded buttons,' the BBC wrote in the letter.
Remote controls may soon have a dedicated BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4 button
'Without a legislative backstop, PSBs are losing out to global platforms. For example, French prominence legislation sets a clear precedent for this, and the UK risks falling behind in protecting the ability of audiences to find PSB content.'
LG, Samsung and Sony are among the manufacturers to sell remotes with a Netflix button, bolstering its popularity.
While details are scarce, the BBC claims its move is not 'protectionist' or backed by 'unjustifiable discrimination', but instead has a 'legitimate objective'.
It added: 'There should be a requirement for a dedicated PSB button on remote controls in instances where there are similar
