Sony is to install desktop widgets for the BBC’s iPlayer on all its Vaio computers from this month.

According to entertainment website Digital Spy, the company has signed a deal with the BBC to allow Vaio users to “pre-book” entire series of forthcoming shows and to download content to watch offline.

"We are delighted to be able to offer Sony Vaio customers this added entertainment functionality giving users the ability to watch and manage their favourite programmes at the click of a button," said Sony proposition development manager Edd Uzzell.

"We are really excited to be partnering with the BBC to bring their fantastic iPlayer service to Sony's VAIO range."