Tim Davie has revealed that the BBC is preparing to make its linear channels available exclusively online within the next decade.
During an RTS event this morning, the director general spoke of a future with an internet-first focus, which will result in many linear TV and radio channels being taken off air.
Davie noted that the BBC is likely to become a “digitally led public service media company of scale” that will “consolidate more activities under one brand”, making content easier to find for audiences.
“A switch off of broadcast will and should happen over time, and we should be active in planning for it. For the BBC, internet-only distribution is an opportunity to connect more deeply with our audiences and to provide them with better services and choice than broadcast allows.
“We are working on how an online BBC could be the best version of the BBC, shaped around people’s interests and needs – a daily partner to your life, bringing the BBC together in a single offer with personalised combinations.”
Davie added that “moving to digital is not the challenge in of itself”, but rather that doing so “while not losing most of your audience and burning millions of pounds unnecessary” is.
The BBC, he says, must “work with regulators and politicians” to improve the broadband services in areas that are currently lacking, ensuring that all audiences can access TV and radio through the internet by 2030.
Despite not being able to foot the bill entirely, he stated that the BBC will become “more active” in educating people about the online transition and making it seem more appealing.
