Australian TV networks such as the ABC, are set to lose exclusive access to BBC programs after the British TV network opened up its Global iPlayer app to the Apple iPhone and iPod touch.

Australian TV networks such as the ABC, are set to lose exclusive access to BBC programs after the British TV network opened up its Global iPlayer app to the Apple iPhone and iPod touch.

The move comes six months after the BBC launched an iPad exclusive. Australians will also get access to popular BBC Radio stations.

BBC Worldwide CEO John Smith says: “The global BBC iPlayer has seen great growth since the pilot first launched in July – both in terms of geographical expansion and technological developments.

“Moving to iPhone and iPod Touch allows us to take the service to a significant new potential audience and deliver fantastic programme content from the BBC and the UK’s creative industry.”

Further developments will bring independent TV shows that were not created by the BBC.

From this Thursday, December 8, those viewers will be able to access the service on all of Apple’s iOS devices.