Can I watch programmes using my mobile data?

Yes, you can play and download programmes over a mobile network as well as over WiFi.

Your phone might block this by default or when you have a data saving option switched on, so follow these steps to check that you can use the app over a mobile network: 

  • Android: Go to device Settings > Apps > BBC iPlayer > Mobile data usage > Switch on the 'Unrestricted mobile data usage when Data saver is on' option. 
  • iOS: Go to device Settings > Scroll down to BBC iPlayer > switch on the Mobile Data option

You can find the option to download programmes via mobile data by opening the iPlayer app and heading to Settings > Downloads > Use mobile data.

The amount of data used to stream programmes will vary depending on the length of the programme, and the video quality. The mobile app will adjust the quality according to the connection strength. An hour-long programme will typically use 700MB of data, so if data-use is a concern, it might be best to switch to WiFi, or download via WiFi and watch offline.  

BBC iPlayer is a free service but remember your mobile operator may charge for the data you use on their network. If you’re unsure how much mobile data costs or what your data allowance is, please contact your mobile network operator.