The new version of the BBC iPlayer was formally launched today. Along with improved picture quality new features include ‘My Favourites’, to collect programmes as they air, and a categories section which will make suggestions to users on a genre basis. The main emphasis is on making it more closely attuned to social networking site such as Twitter and Facebook, from both of which it is now possible to link directly. Through Windows Live Messenger users can view programmes with others and then comment on it. Live broadcasts now feature much more prominently on the site.

A series of brief video guides presented by Rufus Hound provide tips on how to make the best of the new website, focusing especially on the TV content.

To visit BBC iPlayer, go to: www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/