New version of the BBC iPlayer

If you like listening again to BBC Radio Scotland programmes on the BBC iPlayer, you might have noticed that the iPlayer is looking a bit different. This is because a new version of it launched this week, and there are a few more changes coming up at the end of September. While it's been worked on it has been called iPlayer version 3 and a test verson - Beta - was launched back in May.

So what's different with the new version?

The new version has some new features with the focus on making the iPlayer more personal to us as individuals. For example if you enjoy listening to BBC Radio Scotland but also like Radio 2, Radio 4 or 5 Live you can edit the stations so when you go to the iPlayer it shows you what you like and also offers other programmes which may be of interest.

By using the BBC's ID sign-in technology, it allows us to access the iPlayer from a range of gadgets.

The new version also includes social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter which means if you're signed in you can highlight the programmes you like so your pals can see what you like, and vice versa. Beware though if you don't want folk to see any guilty pleasures on your list!

The player will also personalise what sort of shows you like based on your previous listening or viewing habits.

Another new option is the ability to automatically download programmes as soon as they're made available online which is quite handy.

If you're finding it tricky to get used to there are some short videos to watch which are helpful.

There's also more about the whole thing on the BBC Internet Blog.