BBC to add interactive service to DTT radio

The BBC will enhance the presentation of its radio stations on digital terrestrial TV later this month.

Context-sensitive interactive content from BBCi will be presented on-screen upon tuning to a BBC radio station. The BBC cites examples including a Today show listener scrolling through news headlines and someone listening to live commentary on Five Live being able to check sports news. Programme details and listings along with features and competitions will also be featured on the service.

"This development gives those listeners who wish to the opportunity to enjoy a radio experience with text and visual enhancements and more features," said Simon Nelson, controller of BBC Radio and Music interactive. "It also gives us a platform on which we can build all sorts of further enhancements and interactivity, and help to make radio on digital television even more popular."

The interactive menu will also show what is currently airing on other BBC radio channels and allow viewers to switch to them from within the application. Alternatively, viewers may opt to switch the entire application off and blank the screen.