Downloads get classification

Age restrictions on DVDs of TV shows are to be extended to on-demand downloads under a new voluntary scheme.



The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) today extended its classification system to films, programmes and video games that are downloaded over the internet.

Unlike cinema and DVD releases, however, the scheme will be voluntary.

Companies who sign up will display the BBFC's category symbols – Uc, U, PG, 12, 15 or 18 – at the point of purchase and at the start of viewing, accompanied by consumer advice about the content.

The classification is available for video-on-demand and streamed video accessedvia the web, set-top boxes and portable media devices.

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment Europe, Warner Bros. and 20th Century Fox are among the scheme's initial partners.

There are already 700 videos with online certificates and this is likely to rise to about 1,000 by the end of the month.

Anthony Peet, managing director of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, said: "We believe it is important to ensure that content in the digital space is as clearly labelled and classified as that of a physical copy. This scheme offers users the reassurance on the legitimacy and appropriateness of the content they would like to enjoy. This is very positive step for the industry."

Source: Broadcast Now