The BBC is set to launch a version of its iPlayer catch-up service for Nintendo Wii owners in the UK today. The service has already proven popular when used via personal computers, where it is claimed over 42 million programs have been accessed since Christmas 2007. Now, it will also be available as a channel on the Wii enabling users to stream BBC programs directly to their TVs via the console.

The Nintendo Wii deal marks the first time the service can be accessed through a games console, though it is already accessible via Apple’s iPhone and wireless-enabled iPod Touch. But the broadcasting company isn’t stopping there, and is also working on iPlayer versions for more handheld devices and games consoles in a bid to increase the iPlayer’s audience. Good news for Nintendo Wii owners in the UK, albeit less so for ISPs and their already rocky relationship with the BBC over bandwidth concerns.