BBC reducing red button streams on Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media

The BBC is reducing the amount of content it streams via the red button to Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media households.

From October 15th 2012, the video content delivered by the BBC to these three platforms will be cut from five to one - in line with the public service broadcaster's Freeview offering.

Tom Williams, development editor for red button and dual screen in BBC Vision, explained the measure is being taken because the services rely on non-cost-effective linear broadcast technologies.

As a result of the reduction, the BBC will no longer be able to offer such extensive red button coverage, while multiscreen functionality for major events is set to come to an end.

Content that was previously housed on the red button will be shifted to BBC Online. Mr Williams revealed the BBC is also working on new ways to bring enhanced action from big events to TV viewers.

"Our goal is to create the best possible TV experience for our viewers in a way that is cost effective and flexible, enabling us to update the service with new functionality in the future," he commented.