BBC News NI
BBCThe BBC has delayed blocking BBC Sounds app for audiences outside the UK.
It comes after a decision made by the corporation meant listeners outside the UK would only be able to access Radio 4 and the World Service via a new audio section on BBC.com.
In a statement the BBC said it is working on plans to “continue to make other BBC stations available to listeners outside the UK” adding that it “will not close BBC Sounds outside the UK until we have confirmed these plans”.
Questions had been asked about what this would mean for listeners in the Republic of Ireland who would be unable to tune into BBC Radio Ulster or Radio Foyle online.
BBC added: “BBC Studios recently launched a new audio service outside the UK on BBC.com and the BBC app… as a result, the BBC plans to close BBC Sounds to audiences living outside the UK later this year.”
But said that “in parallel” it is looking into stations being made available outside of the UK.
“This includes the BBC’s music stations. BBC Radio 1, Radio 2 and Radio 3, 6music, 1xtra and the Asian Network, as well as the BBC stations from around the Nations and Regions, including Local Radio.”
BBC added it “will prioritise countries where demand for the BBC’s audio services is highest”.
What is BBC Sounds?
BBC Sounds is the online home of BBC radio.
People can listen to live radio streams, on demand programmes, podcasts, audiobooks and music mixes.
It can be accessed via the Sounds website or its dedicated app. People can also listen on many smart speakers and internet radio devices.
What was planned to happen?
BBC Sounds was set to be blocked for audiences outside the UK, affecting international listeners who have already seen a change to their audio offerings.
There is a new Audio section for them on BBC.com – the international website which carries adverts – and their BBC app.
They have access to the BBC’s portfolio of current and archived podcasts but just two radio stations, World Service and Radio 4.
A date for geo-blocking the BBC Sounds service had not been confirmed but the BBC previously said it would be in 2025.
Geo-blocking restricts access to services and content online based on the physical location of the user.
The BBC said UK users who go on holiday outside the UK for a short time will still be able to use the BBC Sounds app.
