The Media Act 2024 introduced a new online availability and prominence regime focused on connected TV platforms . This new regime will require certain connected TV platforms to ensure that BBC iPlayer and other public service broadcaster TV players are available, prominent, and easily accessible . A IPTV SERVICE on regulated platforms must comply with these obligations. The pattern that keeps showing up is regulation shaping the IPTV market. The core objective is to maximise audience benefits by ensuring public service content is "available to the overwhelming majority of the population" .
The 15 Designated Platforms
Ofcom has recommended that 15 connected TV services be designated as regulated television selection services . The list includes household names like Amazon Fire TV OS, Android TV, Apple TV OS, Google TV, LG WebOS, Roku OS, Samsung Smart Hub, and Sky Q . A IPTV SUBSCRIPTION UK on these platforms must ensure PSB content is prominent. The designation will only apply to versions available on the market from July 2025 onwards .
The 700,000 Active Users Threshold
Ofcom has deemed that a platform must have at least 700,000 active users to be considered as having a "significant number of users" for designation . This is based on the number of devices installed in UK homes which have been actively used in the last year. IPTV SERVICE providers on these platforms must comply with prominence obligations.
The Ofcom Code of Practice
The proposed Code of Practice includes requirements that designated PSB player apps should be immediately visible and generally appear within the first nine tiles on app menus; when public service content is most relevant to a user search, it should be the most prominent result; and public service content should be clearly attributed to the relevant PSB player . The Code also includes accessibility requirements .
The Designation Process
PSBs can apply for designation of their IPS from January 2026, with two application windows per year . IPTV UK providers must ensure these designated services are prominent and discoverable. The designation process ensures that only services making a significant contribution to PSB remits benefit from prominence . IPTV SUBSCRIPTION providers on regulated platforms must ensure these designated services are prominent and discoverable.
The Ofcom Verdict
Ofcom's designation of 15 connected TV platforms ensures PSB content remains prominent on IPTV services. A IPTV SERVICE provider operating within this framework delivers a regulated, trustworthy experience. Your IPTV SUBSCRIPTION UK is protected by this regulatory framework. The prominence regime ensures you can find public service content. Regulation builds consumer confidence.