The BBC will tomorrow launch its next-generation iPlayer allowing users to access all its TV and radio shows for the week.

The new version will "dual run" alongside the existing iPlayer for the next few weeks.

"Audiences are now able to experience the full range of BBC content - some 250 TV programmes currently available each week as well as all the BBC radio networks - in a new and more accessible way, and all for free," said BBC's group controller for future media and technology Erik Huggers.

The new iPlayer will carry a "last played" function that will allow users to resume watching programmes at the point they left off - a move which, the BBC said, marks the beginning of a shift towards personalising the player.

It is claimed that navigation between TV and radio shows will be easier, with both combined under such headings as Comedy or Drama.

There will also be a larger playback screen for TV programmes and a TV schedule that allows viewers to plan ahead.

Radio audiences can choose to either listen again to BBC Radio from the last seven days or listen live - and there is a pop-out option to allow them to listen as they browse other web pages.
 
"On-demand radio from the BBC has been a phenomenal success since it was first launched in 2002, with around 600 million hours listened to via streaming or the 'listen again' function," Mr Huggers said.
 
"The full integration with iPlayer is a natural evolution for the audio service and an exciting step for audiences."
 
There have been over 100 million requests to view programmes in the six months since the iPlayer's launch.

The new-look BBC iPlayer will be available on other platforms for TV catch-up, including the Apple iPhone & iPod touch, and the Nintendo Wii.