BBC iPlayer launches mobile-download service

Users of BBC catch-up service iPlayer can now download programmes to watch on phones, tablets and other mobile devices at a later date.

They can save any programme for up to 30 days - but once they hit play, have to finish watching it within a week.

Available on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch devices, the feature will be coming to Android devices soon.

Last month alone there were 30 million requests for iPlayer programmes via a mobile or tablet, according to the BBC.

"With mobile downloads for BBC iPlayer, you can now load up your mobile phone or tablet with hours and hours of BBC television programmes, then watch them on the road, on the Tube, on a plane, without worrying about having an internet connection or running up a mobile data bill," said Daniel Danker, general manager of programmes and on-demand for the BBC.

"So you can fill up your device and take the BBC with you on holiday," he added.

The launch comes as rival ITV is considering a similar service for which it would charge.

Launched in December 2007, the BBC iPlayer allows viewers to watch selected TV programmes for up to seven days after broadcast.