Which Medium Best for Watching Downloads?

Almost as many people would prefer to watch downloaded movies and other visual media on a PC (81%) as on a TV (83%). This suggests that people view the PC as a viewing platform on a par with the television. Only 21% would want to watch on a mobile phone, 27% on a gaming console and 43% on an MP3 player. It is important to entertain the possibility that people wouldn’t want to watch clips on a mobile phone, because of the size of the screen, and the fact that watching movies is largely a communal activity.

Young people are especially keen on the PC as a viewing platform, with 94% viewing the PC as a device that they would be receptive to watching downloaded content on, as opposed to 77% on a TV.

66% of respondents were interested in the concept of digital TV integrated with broadband to deliver alternative on-demand programmes. This shows that there is the potential for on-demand television, as explored by both Sky and Home Choice. The integration with broadband would offer an extra dimension and this is something that consumers might well be interested in.