Understanding the BBC Red Button
The BBC Red Button is an interactive television service that lets viewers access extra content while watching a broadcast. Traditionally it is activated by pressing the red button on a TV remote control, which opens a menu of options such as alternative camera angles for sports, additional news stories, weather maps, or quiz games. The service has been part of the BBC’s offering since the early 2000s and continues to evolve alongside new viewing platforms.
Accessing Red Button through the BBC iPlayer App
While the classic Red Button experience lives on broadcast television, the BBC has integrated similar interactive features into its iPlayer app on certain devices. This allows users who prefer streaming to still enjoy Red Button‑style extras without switching to a live TV feed.
Supported devices
As of 2024, the Red Button‑linked sections inside the iPlayer app are available on: