The BBC is hoping its new iPlayer software will give Apple a run for its money. The software will provide content from the BBC and other broadcasters to worldwide audiences.

In order to fulfill the BBC's public service goals, UK customers will be able to download BBC programs from the service for up to 7 days after they air without paying a fee. But overall the iPlayer venture is meant to raise revenue. Content distributed outside of the UK will be available either for a fee or supported by advertising.

The announcement follows news last week that the BBC would be making some content available via YouTube.

[via The Inquirer]

Last August, Fox began to stream programs from the websites of stations owned and operated by the network, but this is the first time local stations will be given the opportunity to provide content from any network. The stations will split the revenue generated with the network, and will be allowed to place local advertisements in the web streams.

In addition to streaming TV episodes for free, affiliate stations will begin selling downloaded episodes of programs including 24, Prison Break, and Bones, probably for $1.99 per episode and $30 to $40 for a full season.