BBC iPlayer downloads not playing

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Scotdownunder

218 posts

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#245476 5-Feb-2019 23:17

Hi,

As of a few days ago, all my previously downloaded programs from BBC iPlayer refuse to play, off-line or on-line (via VPN). No error message is present just grayed-out entries. No App update to blame so suspect server changes and DRM issues. Having to re-download programs which is going OK.
Anyone else having similar issues.

Note: running High Sierra on 2015 13” MBP.

jonherries

1396 posts

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#2173877 6-Feb-2019 12:15

If I remember correctly, they expire after a while on your device.

Jon

robjg63

4100 posts

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#2173955 6-Feb-2019 13:18

I think they expire around 30 days after the broadcast date - more or less - assuming you are downloading using the official iplayer tools.

Edit: maybe Google around for other tools that can produce a more permanent copy.

Nothing is impossible for the man who doesn't have to do it himself - A. H. Weiler

BarTender

3607 posts

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#2173962 6-Feb-2019 13:48

Using get_iplayer perl script is a far superior experience IMHO.

That way you get a .mp4 file at the highest definition possible.

robjg63

4100 posts

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#2174041 6-Feb-2019 15:45

I didn't want to name it, but that's what I had in mind.
There is a whole gui interface to it for windows. Pretty much a whole video recorder.

Nothing is impossible for the man who doesn't have to do it himself - A. H. Weiler

Scotdownunder

218 posts

Master Geek

Subscriber

#2174120 6-Feb-2019 19:27

Thanks, will investigate that option.

However, the programmes had only been downloaded recently and some had a 3 month validity and some were due to expire in 5 to 7 days. Have been downloading sucessfully for over a year but the BBC seem to have the knack of breaking things every so often.