Freesat iPlayer beta starting this month

The BBC has confirmed that closed beta testing for BBC iPlayer on Freesat will begin this month.

Back in October, the digital satellite platform said that it was "unable to confirm" the timeframe for a beta of the BBC's catch up service.

However, BBC controller of TV platforms Rahul Chakkara confirmed on the BBC Internet Blog that trials of iPlayer on the subscription-free satellite platform will go ahead at some point this month.

On November 7, Freesat will also launch a fresh marketing campaign to promote the Freesat+ and Freesat HD services.

The slow-motion advert, featuring coloured guitar plectrums bearing the Freesat logo falling like snowflakes from the sky, will premiere this Saturday evening on ITV1 during Piers Morgan's Life Stories.

Freesat marketing and communications director Will Abbott said: "Freesat is going from strength to strength, and the new campaign reinforces our position as the UK's premium free TV service.

"With new Freesat+ HD recorders launching in time for Christmas, and high definition [content] from the BBC and ITV already available nationwide, subscription-free, we're looking forward to a strong finish to the year."

Owen Lee, creative director of the Farm agency, which produced the ad campaign, added: "Freesat has successfully established itself as the best digital TV platform by far for people who expect brilliant TV for free. This campaign elevates the brand and captures the magical experience of brilliant TV for everyone."

Back in September, Freesat reported sales of 600,000 units since it launched in May 2008, making it the UK's fourth biggest digital TV platform.