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Listening to Radio 4 Online
  • How long do recordings stay on the website?

  • How do I listen to Radio 4 online?


  • What is the iPlayer?

  • Why can't I listen again to Desert Island Discs?

  • Why can't I use Windows Media Player?

  • Why is the audio quality less good over the web?

  • Can I download Radio 4 programmes as mp3 files?

  • Why can't I listen again as soon as a
        programme finishes?


  • How do I report a problem with a Radio 4 listen link?

  • Where can I find more information?


  • How long do recordings stay on the website?

    Most programmes are only available for seven days after transmission before being removed or replaced by the audio of the following week's programme. This limit applies to all dramas, readings and comedy programmes. Some factual broadcasts, eg Today, Woman's Hour and most science programmes are available for longer periods.
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    How do I listen to Radio 4 online?

    To listen to audio, or watch video, you need a connection to the Internet, a computer and speakers which are turned on!

    Most programmes are available through BBC iPlayer. Advice on using iPlayer is available at iPlayer help.

    When programmes are offered for longer than seven days after transmission, you may need an additional program on your computer. You may be prompted to download Flash (Flash help) or Realplayer (Realplayer help). These programs are free of charge.

    What is the iPlayer?

    The BBC iPlayer allows you to listen to a wide range of BBC Radio and TV Programmes. Advice on using iPlayer is available at iPlayer help.
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    Why can't I listen again to Desert Island Discs?

    For copyright reasons Desert Island Discs is not currently available as a listen again item.
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    Why is the audio quality less good over the web?

    Some users complain of echo, distortion, stuttering audio or poor sound quality when listening via the internet. Such problems are often outside of our control, they are caused by the nature of the internet and the encoding, decoding and data compression techniques used to transmit audio over the network.
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    Can I download Radio 4 programmes as mp3 files?

    Some Radio 4 programmes are available in mp3 format. You can download the files individually or use 'podcasting' software to subscribe and receive each edition of a programme automatically. The full list of available programmes, plus sources of technical information, can be found on our Download/Podcasting page.
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    Why can't I listen again as soon as a programme finishes?

    Programmes are normally available via our listen again service approximately 30 minutes after the end of transmission. The exact period depends on the length of the programme and delays in the distribution system.
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    How do I report a problem with a Radio 4 listen link?

    Please first check that your equipment is working correctly and that you can listen to other audio sources on the Radio 4 website. If you find a problem with a particular audio link, please contact the Radio 4 website.
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    Where can I find more information?

    For more comprehensive help with listening to audio via the internet visit the Audio Help page.
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    Still can't find the answer to your question?

    Please try one of the following options:

  • BBC Radio Audio Help
  • Downloading mp3s - our 'podcasting' trial
  • Other Ways of Listening
  • Questions about Radio 4 programmes
  • Questions about the Radio 4 website
  • BBC Complaints


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    Help Pages Index
    Radio 4 programmes

    Downloads and podcasts

    How to listen online

    Other ways to listen

    Radio 4 website

    Complaints

    Top 10 FAQs
    · Can I download Radio 4 programmes to my mp3 player?

    · How long do recordings stay on the website?

    · How can I find a programme on the website?

    · Do you offer CDs or transcripts of Radio 4 programmes?

    · Why can't I listen again to Desert Island Discs?

    · Why don't you offer audio in other formats - eg Windows Media?

    · Why can't I listen again as soon as a programme finishes?

    · How do I get tickets for Radio 4 shows?

    · How can I comment on Radio 4 programmes?

    · How can I report a fault on the Radio 4 website?


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