BBC Sounds to block listeners abroad – this is how to keep access
Radio to remain available in France via commercial services
Live radio streams for BBC stations will remain accessible outside the UK via commercial services
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The BBC is blocking access to its Sounds app and website for listeners outside the UK from July 21, 2025, with international listeners instead directed to various commercial services.
The BBC Sounds platform, which hosts BBC radio channels and podcasts online, will only be available to listeners based in the UK from next week.
Users overseas will then be directed to the new BBC Audio service via the BBC app or at bbc.com/audio.
This service includes access to BBC Radio 4, the World Service, and a selection of podcasts in English, Welsh and Gaelic.
Live radio streams for other BBC stations - including Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3, 5 Live, and regional services - will remain accessible outside the UK, but not via BBC Sounds.
The BBC says listeners should consult the station directory at BBC.com to find the correct streaming links.
The change will not affect access to BBC content on third-party platforms (such as the TuneIn app), which are not affected by the geoblocking.
The plans, which were announced earlier this year, prompted an outcry from listeners abroad, who feared they would be left with limited access to BBC radio.
The BBC then postponed its plans for several months, before setting the new date of July 21 for the end of the Sounds service.
However, the broadcaster has confirmed that listeners will still be able to access content via services such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or TuneIn, depending on the show or station.
UK residents will still be able to use BBC Sounds for up to one month while travelling abroad.
Continued use may require occasional reconnection to a UK internet address.
The broadcaster says the decision reflects its funding model.
BBC Sounds is funded by the UK licence fee, while the new international platform is operated by BBC Studios, its commercial arm. Revenue from BBC Audio will be used to support the BBC’s public service remit.
More details, including a link to the BBC station directory and support for international users, are available at bbc.com/audio.
