iPlayer on PlayStation 3 September 2011

The BBC first launched it's iPlayer service for the Playstation 3 in 2009, and iPlayer has changed little since then on Sony's popular games console. However, August saw the TV catch-up service receive a major overhaul, which can be received by applying the latest update to Sony's PlayStation 3.

The update will be applied to other iPlayer compatible devices, such as Smart TV's and web intergrated set top boxes, but debuts on the PlayStation 3.

Check out our full reviews of TV's, including Smart TV's

Improved interface and HD

The most obvious change when using the new version of iPlayer is its user interface, which has been streamlined to suit devices such as the PlayStation 3. Navigating content is a straightforward affair, simply moving between screens using the controller or dedicated PlayStation remote. It is clear to see how this control method will be beneficial to the service when rolled out to Smart TV's. Accessing content using a traditional remote control should prove to be a breeze, and a huge improvement over the older, browser-based system. 

The new iPlayer layout is clear and uncluttered

The iPlayer covers the BBC TV and radio stations that you'd expect, but adds high-definition content from it's BBC HD channel. The difference between standard quality and HD is night and day, and there's also the option to reduce the video quality to low if you have a slower broadband connection.

Our initial hands-on with the service found that high-definition content played fairly smoothly, although it was noticeably slower to begin compared to standard definition. In addition, making any changes to the show once playing, such as rewinding or fast fowarding was rather choppy. However, experience of HD content will vary depending on broadband connection speed.

Favourites

Also now available is a 'Favourite' bar, which is used to keep track of your favourite shows. This has been a staple of the original iPlayer for some time, and its inclusion on the PlayStation 3 makes sense, allowing users to quickly access their favoured content without the need to search each time.

Using the Favourites option not only saves the individual show selected, but also any future shows in the series.

Searching for shows is also made easier, thanks to the iPlayer's new function, which searches in real time. When entering the name of a show, iPlayer will suggest possible options based on your text. Enter 'E', and Eastenders, Eggheads and Escape to the Country will appear almost immediately, and it means that searching for content is a simple affair.

Read our full review of the PlayStation 3

Verdict

While the original iPlayer on the PlayStation 3 was a good product, it had many failings, the biggest of which was that it more or less the PC version, grafted onto the console. The new version has been designed with the PlayStation in mind, as well as other devices which don't have the benefit of a mouse and keyboard - and it's a worthwhile update to the service.

The new version of iPlayer should start to appear on Smart TV's and other devices within the next few months.