BBC launches breaking news desktop alert service

Emma Rigby,, Revolution UK 21-Apr-04, 08:00

LONDON - The BBC has launched a news alert service that will be available to both BBC UK News and BBC World Service website users.

Alerts are sent to PC audiences via a BBC News branded dialogue box containing a headline, summary text and link to the BBC's website. Users can also opt-in to receive information on current affairs programmes such as 'Panorama' and 'Money Box'.

Users download an icon to access the service from bbc.co.uk/breakingnews. Once installed on the desktop, a timer allows scheduled pop-up alerts according to information requested. Users can download UK or overseas news options.

Anthony Sullivan, product manager at BBC interactive, said: "The service provides a different format to the BBC's breaking news email service which has been running since the start of the war in Iraq."

He added: "People sitting at their PCs who have signed up to receive an alert for their favourite radio news programme will receive an announcement five minutes before the programme starts. They can click a link on the alert to listen to streamlined radio through their PC."

Online promotion of programmes and the service will target slots around the index pages on the BBC website, with plans to promote it on the landing page. The service will also be promoted through daily emails sent to the BBC's 200,000 subscribers.

The technology is powered by Skinkers Communications, which develops targeted communications for PC audiences.

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