What do I need to know about HD on BBC iPlayer?

The BBC HD channel is now available on BBC iPlayer. In order to be classed as "true" high definition, we encode in at least 1280x720 resolution, or 720p. You'll know when it's available as the Watch in BBC HD logo will be present if an HD version is available.

HD content is available to stream through the website and to download to BBC iPlayer Desktop.

We use h.264 with a bitrate of 3.2Mbps and 192kbps audio, which means that streaming and downloading will put demands on your network connection and computer's graphics processing. We recommend then that you have a:

• A modern computer with a graphics card and processor than can handle the graphics, otherwise playback will be choppy
• An internet connection fast enough to allow 3.2Mbps playback. Check your speed at our diagnostics page.
• An internet connection that will allow downloads or playback of the large file sizes

Due to the variations between machines, we can't offer individual specs.

If you do try HD and your computer can't run it, we have boosted our encode rates for all other BBC iPlayer programmes, so you now have the option to access programmes that are not in HD but are still of good quality.

For more information, see the blog of Anthony Rose, the BBC's Head of Digital Media Technologies.

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