Android and iOS smartphone and tablet users will soon be able to scroll back and watch BBC shows they’ve missed the start of.
The broadcaster says its Live Restart feature, which lets viewers watch shows that have already begun from the beginning of the episode, is coming to mobile apps “shortly”.
The feature was rolled out to connected TV platforms such as Now TV and YouView last summer but its availability on mobile devices is expected to significantly boost usage.
Dan Taylor-Watt, Head of BBC iPlayer, has also announced several other changes to iPlayer, including the adoption of Adaptive Bitrate (ABR) streaming technology which will ensure owners of compatible devices watch in HD (720p 50fps) by default.
The addition of ABR brings the BBC into line with paid-for streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime which automatically serve customers the best quality picture supported by their broadband connection.
Owners of other devices can manually opt to watch in HD by selecting the onscreen button.
The BBC is also improving the ability to scroll forward and back within programmes by introducing thumbnails which display as the user moves along the scrub bar, making it easier to find the scene or moment you were looking for.
Other changes announced today include subtitles on live channels, easier discovery of 400 archive programmes available on iPlayer and “a raft of personalisation features” which will make it easier for users to discover new content.