BBC launching DTO store?
March 9, 2012
The BBC is reportedly developing a new scheme under which UK viewers would pay to download new and old BBC TV shows from a service it hopes will compete with iTunes.
BBC executive wants to make all its shows available as download-to-own (DTO) at prices including £1.89 per show, under a scheme called Project Barcelona.
According to reports, the BBC has been negotiating for rights with independent producers that make some of the shows. They support the aims of the scheme, believing it could represent a new revenue opportunity and a defence against piracy.
But the producers, through their umbrella organisation Pact, have so far declined to give their blessing, citing uncertainty over revenue share, exclusivity and the potential for cannibalising DVD sales. They have asked for more detailed assurances.