BBC Sounds app being withdrawn for overseas users

[brewsterbudgen]

While it's a frustrating app to use, it's great for listening to live BBC radio and catch-up, plus podcasts.  Now it is being withdrawn and overseas listeners will need to use the bbc.com app.  A quick look shows that the only 'live' BBC radio stations will be Radio 4 and the World Service.  No access for Radio 5Live, 6 Music, Radio 1/2 or any other BBC station. 

 

Disappointing.

 

 

[soi3eddie]

23 minutes ago, brewsterbudgen said:

While it's a frustrating app to use, it's great for listening to live BBC radio and catch-up, plus podcasts.  Now it is being withdrawn and overseas listeners will need to use the bbc.com app.  A quick look shows that the only 'live' BBC radio stations will be Radio 4 and the World Service.  No access for Radio 5Live, 6 Music, Radio 1/2 or any other BBC station. 

 

Disappointing.

 

 

Do you pay the BBC licence fee of £169.50 ($217)?

 

[brewsterbudgen]

18 minutes ago, soi3eddie said:

 

Do you pay the BBC licence fee of £169.50 ($217)?

 

 

No I don't, as it's not an option.  But I would happily pay a subscription for overseas access if it was possible.

 

Not that that is the point.  BBC Sounds has been an internationally available app for many years. Why change now?

 

 

 

 

[soi3eddie]

1 hour ago, brewsterbudgen said:

Not that that is the point.  BBC Sounds has been an internationally available app for many years. Why change now?

 

Probably to reduce BBC costs. Their licence fee base and therefore, revenues, are falling.

 

 

AI Overview

Yes, the BBC is losing licence fee payers as more people cancel their subscriptions in favor of streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. The BBC's revenue from the licence fee has also been declining due to inflation and funding cuts. 

 

Explanation

• Changing viewing habits: People are watching less linear television and more streaming content. 
   
• Cost of living pressures: Many households are struggling financially and can't afford the licence fee. 
   
• Funding cuts: The BBC has been underfunded for a decade, and the licence fee has generated less income in real terms since 2010. 
   

 

Impact on the BBC

• The BBC's income from the licence fee has been declining, and the corporation has been struggling financially. 
   
• The BBC has been forced to make cutbacks, including limiting senior salaries and cutting excessive expenses. 
   

 

What the BBC is doing 

 

• The BBC is launching a public engagement exercise to help shape the future of the BBC.
• The BBC is working with the government to secure the long-term future of the BBC.

[brianburi]

I only listen to the ''Today'' program on Radio 4,  so good to see you can still hear it,

Though now the lovely Mishal Hussain has left,  its lost a little of its sparkle......

[phetphet]

2 hours ago, brewsterbudgen said:

While it's a frustrating app to use, it's great for listening to live BBC radio and catch-up, plus podcasts.  Now it is being withdrawn and overseas listeners will need to use the bbc.com app.  A quick look shows that the only 'live' BBC radio stations will be Radio 4 and the World Service.  No access for Radio 5Live, 6 Music, Radio 1/2 or any other BBC station. 

 

Disappointing.

 

 

There are some other radio apps you can buy, such as TuneIn, Broadcasts, and My Tuner Pro to name a few.

 

I like TuneIn. There is TuneIn Radio, TuneIn Radio Pro (onetime purchase)of around $9.99) which avoids ads.

There is also a Premium subscription, which includes free audio books, but not for me.

Has all the BBC Channels including 5live and 5 sports extra.

 

HTH

[brewsterbudgen]

42 minutes ago, phetphet said:

There are some other radio apps you can buy, such as TuneIn, Broadcasts, and My Tuner Pro to name a few.

 

I like TuneIn. There is TuneIn Radio, TuneIn Radio Pro (onetime purchase)of around $9.99) which avoids ads.

There is also a Premium subscription, which includes free audio books, but not for me.

Has all the BBC Channels including 5live and 5 sports extra.

 

HTH

 

Thanks.  I have TuneIn but never used it for BBC radio.  Guess I'll have to now!