UK public-service broadcaster the BBC has launched an application on social media website Facebook that will offer audiences live streaming of major sports events, including the 2012 Olympic Games.
The launch marks the first time the BBC will have streamed events live on Facebook.
A beta version of the app was launched yesterday for the BBC’s coverage of the Wimbledon tennis championships, offering the broadcaster’s television coverage plus up to six extra match streams from across the courts.
The BBC is offering up to 24 simultaneous streams of live coverage during the 2012 Olympics. These will also be shown via Facebook as well as the BBC’s website.
Phil Fearnley, general manager of BBC News and Knowledge, said: “With our Facebook app we aim to bring even greater value to our online audiences, enabling them to watch together and share their excitement. We hope to use it to test the benefits of social viewing, as part of our ambition to deliver more innovative and transformative experiences to sports fans.”