How to Watch BBC iPlayer in the US in 2024
Here's our guide that will help you get BBC iPlayer live stream in the United States of America.
The BBC's upcoming catalogue for this year is stirring anticipation as some of the biggest hit shows are returning. All of these shows are available to stream directly on BBC iPlayer, even if you live in America.
Beebs unblocks BBC iPlayer for those living in the USA, allowing for easy streaming of your favourite British TV. Follow the prompts and install via the Chrome Store.
Follow These Steps to Pick Up BBC Locally in the US:
Once you've completed the steps listed above, you can start watching BBC iPlayer straight away from anywhere within the USA. Just remember to register to the BBC iPlayer. You can also stream from other British TV channels like Channel 4 and ITV!
This is the best way how to use BBC iPlayer in the USA. Happy viewing!
Trailer for BBC iPlayer in 2024
Why is BBC One and BBC iPlayer Blocked in the USA?
First things first. Most want to know why the BBC actively block international viewers from watching via their BBC iPlayer website. For example, if you try and watch Killing Eve on iPlayer you will be met with the message: "BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues."
Even though the BBC is public owned, the broadcaster raises revenue by selling the rights to their home-made shows to different streaming platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime or to local TV stations. The BBC iPlayer also hosts movies and TV shows made by international / private companies, so geo-blocking is necessary.
Alternative Ways to Watch British TV Shows in America
Option 1: Pay for Britbox or Acorn TV
As mentioned earlier, Britbox launched in the USA and has a collection of British TV from BBC and ITV. Subscribers have access to selected current and classic boxsets for viewing on-demand. Americans pay $6.99 a month or $69.99 per year.
Acorn TV is the main rival of Britbox since it offers a similar product. Acorn TV has mix of both new and classic shows. US based subscriber pay $5.99 a month or $59.99 per year.
It must be said that the programming on Britbox and Acorn TV is lacking when it comes to new content since these shows are distributed to other platforms such as Netlfix or Amazon. Britbox or Acorn TV could be a good alternative if you are a fan of the older British TV shows.
Option 2: Look for a VPN or BBC Proxy Service
By far and away the most popular method of accessing the different streaming services is by purchasing a VPN (Virtual Private Network) which works by masking the user's IP address and makes it seem as though you are situated in the UK rather than the USA. For a decent VPN you will need to download software and pay a monthly fee. Most work reasonably well once installed though it can have the effect of slowing down your overall internet connection speed. The BBC is also better at detecting access to its programming from overseas.
Others use a BBC iPlayer proxy server much to the same effect - hiding one's IP address to make it look as though a person is located in the UK. A proxy server which is similar to a VPN but much more lightweight. There is usually a limit on the bandwidth you can use with any free version of a proxy server, so binge watching isn't always possible.
Option 3: Beebs Chrome Extension
A BBC streaming service for the USA is achievable once you've downloaded the Beebs Chrome Extension. Your device will have full access to site requests from all the main British streaming services. This includes be able to stream Channel 4 in the USA. This means you have access to the entire online catalogue found on:
- BBC iPlayer
- Channel 4 (All4)
- ITV (ITV Hub)
Trailer for BBC's Top Gear Series 30
The BBC One Live Stream in the USA is Here
News programmes - the BBC is world renown for its editorial independence. In the world of 'fake news' people should have access to great TV news content. Viewers can choose from the top line programming in the morning with BBC News Breakfast or the evening with BBC News at Six or BBC News at Ten.
Children's programmes - the BBC has some great kids content. Having access to this content can also be especially useful if you want to improve a child's language skills. Parents can be happy to know that their children are watching high quality TV suitable for their age.
Political discussion - the BBC has a broad range of political content. Whether you are a student, ex-pat or just a politics junkie, having access to these types of programmes will broaden your mind and give you a better understanding of the politics behind the news.
Final Words
The good news is that Beebs makes it incredibly easy for those wanting to stream the TV shows, movies, news, sport, and any other content on BBC iPlayer. As an added bonus, it's even possible to watch ITVX in the US as well as the other British streamings services.