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BBC 'Active' just press the red button

(November 2001)

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GC
The great Cornholio
BBC unveils interactive news

Owen Gibson
Wednesday November 7, 2001

The BBC is launching an interactive news service on its News 24 channel in an effort to rival Sky News Active.

Initially available only on SkyDigital, BBC News Interactive will offer continuously updated news, weather and sports bulletins, available to viewers by pressing the red interactive button on their remote control.

'BBC News Interactive adds another dimension to BBC News's most famous programme brands by allowing viewers to take part in discussions, debates and interviews with those who make and report the news,' said Richard Deverell, head of news at the BBC's new media department.

The additional bulletins will be fronted by BBC News 24 presenter Susanna Reid and Andrew Simmons, formerly a correspondent at Sky News and ITN.

A red icon on the screen during news coverage across all of the BBC's channels will inform viewers that they can access the service.

During flagship news programmes the service will provide further interactive elements such as discussions and debates while key events will be covered in more depth on the service, with extended coverage of press conferences and news events.
HA
harshy Founding member
I wonder where exactly will they place the red button on BBC News 24?
MG
MikeG
And when it comes to Telewest, how will we access it? Currently for ITN, we have to press 'Interactive' while NTL just have to press the red button! Will this change?
HA
harshy Founding member
It'll be the same for the BBC, you'll have to press INTERACTIVE!
MG
MikeG
Maybe not having read this:

http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/0,,5-2001384827,00.html

Now Telewest's will be like NTL's!

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