BBC Sounds app launches on connected TVs from today

Some TV owners will get access to the new BBC Sounds app today, offering listeners BBC local and national radio, music mixes and podcasts through their set.

Today, YouView and Virgin devices are the first to get access to the BBC Sounds TV app, which includes certain Sony TVs. Compatible Samsung TVs will be getting the new app later this week, and it will be steadily be available on other smart TVs and devices in the coming weeks and months.

It's good news for those spending more time indoors, offering you access to more than 80,000 hours of live and on-demand audio content from the comfort of your sofa.

We explore the features content of the new app below.

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What content can I access on the BBC Sounds TV app?

It includes all the BBC's 18 national and 40 local radio stations, such as BBC Radio 4, as well as BBC podcasts, and music mixes curated by BBC experts as well as artists and special guests.

Now you have added choice for BBC content on your TV, with both BBC Sounds audio content and TV programmes through iPlayer all in one place. With BBC Sounds you can view live-track information as you listen, including for live radio stations, and easily browse content on your TV screen.

Music mixes on offer include CD-length 'Mindful Mix' playlists to relax or meditate to, as well as others including 'Classical Focus' with pianos and strings, as well as ones for the latest music and particular genres, and 'Focus Beats' to help you to concentrate.

Podcast choices include those by Gemma Collins and Peter Crouch, as well as a weekly Match of the Day talk show and Friday Night Comedy.

Plus, the TV app means you can take advantage of any soundbar or surround sound setups you might have in your home.

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How the BBC Sounds app works

You can use the interface to browse categories, such as classical music mixes or comedy shows. As you're listening, you can rewind and move forward 20 seconds, and skip to the next or previous episode, or view the full episode list.

Just like the BBC Sounds app on your mobile and on the web, BBC Sounds personalises its recommendations based on what you've previously listened to. It allows you to switch devices with ease too - bookmarked shows and music mixes will show up on all your devices, and if you start listening on mobile then continue on your TV, programmes and music mixes will pick up where you left off.

How do I get it?

If you have a Virgin Media or YouView device, or a compatible Sony TV, you should automatically see the BBC Sounds app in your available apps list from today. If not, you may need to wait a little while or update your device so it refreshes the apps list.

This page on the BBC website will be updated with compatible devices as and when the BBC Sounds app is rolled out to them.

If you're worried about screen burn with certain TVs, the BBC Sounds TV app also helpfully features a screen saver to refresh your TV's screen.