Streaming Service Expands for Australian Viewers
BritBox has unveiled a major overhaul of its streaming service in Australia. The British-focused platform now offers upgraded features, new pricing and expanded content. The changes mark BritBox’s most significant update since its 2020 launch in the Australian market.
Figure 1: Britbox expands services for Australian viewers
Monthly and Annual Subscriptions Rise
The cost of a BritBox subscription has increased for the first time since early 2024. Monthly fees have risen from $9.99 to $13.99. Annual subscriptions have also jumped from $99.99 to $139.99. The price adjustment accompanies several platform upgrades aimed at improving the user experience.
Figure 2: BritBox increases subscription rate in Australia
New Shows and Content Arrive in June
BritBox has added new exclusive series to its June schedule. Shetland Season 9 leads the lineup, alongside Agatha Christie’s Towards Zero and BBC comedy Mandy. Diane Morgan, known for Cunk on Earth, features in Mandy. BritBox plans to focus more on factual content and expand its documentary library.
Three 24-Hour Live Channels Introduced
The platform now includes three new curated live channels: BBC First, BBC Entertain and BBC Select. BBC First features drama such as Call the Midwife and Towards Zero. BBC Entertain offers comedy panel shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats, QI, and House of Games. BBC Select focuses on factual content like Frozen Planet, Africa and Life Below Zero.
Linear Channels Join On-Demand Experience
BritBox has adopted a format that blends on-demand streaming with linear television. Viewers can now switch between scheduled channels and the regular library. This feature caters to audiences who prefer non-stop programming without needing to choose specific shows.
Executives Outline Vision for the Upgrade
Moira Hogan, Executive Vice President of International Markets and General Manager of BritBox Australia, shared insights with Reviews.org Australia.
“Our customers told us they wanted more — more of the latest series, more quality dramas, comedies and mysteries, as well as more variety across genres. We’ve expanded the service with the aim of continuing to delight our existing fans and appeal to new customers,” Hogan said.
“Our team has crafted a user experience that combines the best of on-demand viewing with a curated channel experience. So when you’re not sure what to watch, you can easily switch to one of our three streaming channels and the choice is instantly made for you.”
4K Streaming Set to Launch in August
BritBox will introduce 4K streaming from August this year. The upgrade aligns with growing demand for higher-resolution content. This development will position BritBox alongside other services offering ultra-high-definition programming.
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Ad-Free Viewing to Continue
The platform will remain ad-free despite expanding its content offerings. “It’s just not on the roadmap. We’ve heard very loudly from our audience that they really love that BritBox is ad-free, and we’re sticking with that,” said Hogan. Subscribers can expect a seamless experience without commercial interruptions.
Seven-Day Free Trial Still Available
New users can explore the platform through a seven-day free trial. Once the trial ends, users will pay the new monthly fee of $13.99. The updated service offers additional value through content upgrades and new viewing formats.
Platform Continues to Grow After Five Years
BritBox launched in Australia in late 2020 as a joint venture between BBC and ITV. The service has built a library that includes Doctor Who, Blackadder, Absolutely Fabulous, The Office, Prime Suspect, and Luther. Its documentary catalogue features titles such as Planet Earth, The Hunt, Blue Planet and The Planets.
Returning Series Strengthen the Catalogue
Several popular British series will return to BritBox in 2024. The Cleaner, Professor T and Karen Pirie are set to return later this year. The growing lineup underscores the platform’s commitment to expanding its British TV catalogue.
BritBox Embraces Changing Streaming Habits
The rise of linear channels reflects changing viewer habits across global streaming platforms. BritBox has followed this trend by incorporating curated channels alongside its on-demand offerings. The new features aim to attract both long-term users and first-time subscribers.
Service Focuses on Curated British Entertainment
BritBox remains focused on delivering British television to Australian audiences. The service now includes hundreds of hours of programming across drama, mystery, comedy and factual genres. With more updates ahead, BritBox continues to evolve within the competitive streaming market.