BBC iPlayer scoops RTS Judges' Award

The Royal Television Society has honoured BBC iPlayer by comparing the catch-up platform to the other great innovations, such as the steam engine and even Viagra.

At the RTS Innovation Awards ceremony held last night in London, the BBC's on-demand service picked up the Judges' Award for showing "great vision in determining how media might develop in the future and how we all will relate to the changing aspects of communication".

The accolade, typically given to "something that maps out where others will follow", was given to iPlayer for its "world leading streaming service, setting new standards in simple consumer interface".

The judges also praised the service - which accounts for around 5% of UK internet traffic - for its expansion to other platforms, such as Virgin Media.

Last week, the BBC confirmed plans for a beta trial of iPlayer to go ahead this month on the Freesat platform.

"There have been great British innovations - the steam engine, the gas turbine, radio waves, jet engines and arguably video games. Even the inventors of Viagra. But seriously, the role of honour of great British innovation now has a proud new addition," said RTS Innovation Awards chair Jeff Henry.

"For all the hard work, commitment and belief shown by the BBC and its staff, with particular recognition of Anthony Rose's contribution, the RTS Innovation Awards proudly presents the Judges Award to the BBC iPlayer, proving that it is not just a gift for Christmas, but for life."

Other notable winners at the RTS ceremony included the Sky News iPhone application, which took the On The Move Award for its clear interface and "excellent video quality".

The BBC's R&D team also took home the Under The Bonnet Award for its contribution to the DVB-T2 standard, which will "transform the viewing experience of millions" when it's used to launch Freeview HD next month.