The new version of the service, which has been available to Wii through its Internet Channel since April 2008, will feature improvements including a full-screen interface. It's a similar move to the one that saw iPlayer appear as a separate menu item with PS3's 3.0 firmware update in September.
“We’re pleased that we’ve been able to work with Nintendo to evolve BBC iPlayer on the Wii, providing a faster, high quality and improved viewing experience," said Erik Huggers, director of BBC Future Media & Technology. "It’s important that we offer audiences more ways to access the huge range of BBC content available, and this improved version of BBC iPlayer underlines our commitment to reaching new audiences by making BBC iPlayer available on as many platforms as possible."
Nintendo UK's general manager, David Yarnton added, "Our partnership with the BBC is another way in which Nintendo is looking to broaden the market for its products by offering compelling and relevant content to families. BBC iPlayer offers Wii owners another reason to turn their console on every day and adds to the already established non gaming content on Wii that includes Wii Channels for news, weather forecasts and an internet browser."
Nintendo says that the BBC has taken 900,000 requests for programmes from Wii consoles since April last year. The channel will be available for download through Nintendo's Wii Shop Channel.