Virgin Media set-top box users could soon have access to BBC programmes over their broadband connection, it has emerged.

The internet service provider has confirmed that it is on schedule to start offering content from the BBC's iPlayer direct to set-top boxes.

Episodes of shows from the last seven days may be viewed online at the BBC website or downloaded to be watched using the standalone iPlayer software.

But, if the scheme goes ahead, Virgin Media customers could also watch such episodes on their television via their set-top box.

A Virgin Media spokesperson tells TechRadar: "We haven't got an exact date for the iPlayer's arrival but it will be in April.

"It's a high-quality streaming service that lets you watch TV on demand on its natural home - the television."

By mid-February the BBC revealed that 500,000 shows a day were being viewed using iPlayer by 1.3 million unique weekly visitors.

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