Charge warning on BBC live streaming

Consumers have been warned that they should consider their download limits if they want to use the BBC's new live streaming service.

The broadcaster began streaming its two main channels, BBC1 and BBC2 yesterday (November 27th).

However, Michael Phillips, product director of BroadbandChoices.co.uk, explained that the large amounts of data involved could put them at risk of breaking fair usage policies.

He believes that it is up to the BBC to inform users about the potential pitfalls.

"The BBC, as a public service broadcaster, has a responsibility to educate users about the impact of watching live streaming," he said.

"It has the potential to impact viewers' broadband service and they might incur punitive charges through accessing high quantities of this content."

His website, a price comparison site for broadband, recommended that customers should make sure they know the details of their broadband package.

Additionally, they should use the BBC iPlayer service instead if programmes do not need to be watched live.