BBC iPlayer viewers have criticised the removal of the broadcaster’s app from some older Samsung devices, weeks away from Christmas.
The streaming and catch-up platform is no longer available on some Samsung Blu-ray, DVD player and set-top boxes, ranging from 2012 up to 2018.
Although the iPlayer app for smart Samsung TVs is being updated rather than removed entirely, Samsung said some models sold between 2013 and 2015 will not receive the update until early 2020.
“@SamsungHelpUK the issues with iPlayer on Samsung TVs 2012-2015 vintage are an utter disgrace!” said one viewer on social media.
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“Early next year? Are you kidding me? That’s two of our three TVs where iPlayer is no longer usable! Clearly you have utter contempt for your customers!”
Another wrote: “Merry Christmas! I can’t access BBC iPlayer on my Samsung TV. How do I cancel my TV license then? Or will this be fixed before Christmas?”
A third added: “Congratulations for mucking up my Samsung TV iPlayer. The update doesn’t work and I won’t be able to use it for Christmas. Well done BBC.”
Others said they were struggling to install the updated app, despite it being available.
Responding to one customer, Samsung staff wrote: “We understand your frustration; the reason this is happening is to avoid download traffic and ensure a smooth installation process by staggering the update releases.”
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On a support page, the BBC said iPlayer will no longer be available on some Samsung Blu-ray, DVD player and set-top box devices from December 6 as they are “unable to support the technical requirements needed to keep BBC iPlayer going”.
The BBC said the issue affecting some Samsung TVs is a firmware issue. “Despite the challenge, we work hard to keep BBC iPlayer working on as many devices as possible,” it explained.
A spokesman said: “Samsung tell us they are working hard to address the problem with their firmware and any viewers who are experiencing difficulty watching iPlayer on Samsung TVs should contact the manufacturer to get it fixed.”
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