[Jadykeery]

ISPs are currently in talks with the BBC over their concerns that the BBC iPlayer could overload the UK's broadband networks.

Tiscali, Carphone Warehouse and BT are reported to have met with the BBC's director of future media and technology, Ashley Highfield, to discuss the issue.

Some ISPs are warning they may have to increase the amount of "traffic shaping" that goes on by restricting the number of users that could access the iPlayer or similar video streaming sites at any one time, in order to guarantee performance across the network. Other options are to upgrade the broadband infrastructure, with the additional cost ultimately passed onto the consumer.

The ISPs are reportedly not happy with the BBC's reassurances so far, and are looking for a commercial model that works for all parties, with the cost for providing the additional bandwidth needed for the widespread distribution of such services being be shared between the video service providers and ISPs.

The BBC has set a target of 500,000 users in the first six months, but some of those using the open Beta version currently available have already reported several problems with the service. http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/broadcas...d-network.html