Ricky Gervais is making another multimedia appearance, this time as part of a deal between the BBC and Orange to deliver excerpts from the Office to mobile phones.

It is the first time a mobile operator has used BBC content. Orange World users can download clips, catchphrase ringtones and wallpapers from the award-winning comedy series as well as Little Britain, the League of Gentlemen and the classic Doctor Who.

"More and more, BBC Worldwide is looking to move toward non-traditional broadcasting vehicles," said Jason Blain, director of business development at BBC Worldwide.

"For the first time, we're giving mobile customers the chance to watch their favourite shows on their phone."

Guardian Unlimited's Ricky Gervais podcast series went on to become the world's most popular podcast, averaging more than 261,000 downloads each week during its first month. Gervais told the Guardian that it was no surprise because the podcast is the first of its type: "It's a bit like Alexander Graham Bell getting the biggest telephone bill," he said.

• Virgin Mobile will be introducing BT Movio later this year providing subscribers with live digital TV and radio services.

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