<P> Some more recent editions have since included additional methods of voting, such as voting through social media and smartphone applications . Occasionally, non-standard votes occur, where two houseguests are evicted at once or no one is voted out . In the earlier series of Big Brother, there were 10 contestants with evictions every two weeks . However, the UK version introduced a larger number of contestants with weekly evictions . Most versions of Big Brother follow the weekly eviction format, broadcast over approximately three months for 16 contestants . </P> <P> The contestants are required to do housework and are assigned tasks by the producers of the show (who communicate with the housemates via the omnipresent authority figure known to them only as "Big Brother"). The tasks are designed to test their teamwork abilities and community spirit . In some countries, the housemates' shopping budget or weekly allowance (to buy food and other essentials) depends on the outcome of assigned tasks . </P> <P> The term Big Brother originates from George Orwell's novel Nineteen Eighty - Four, with its theme of continuous oppressive surveillance . The program also relies on other techniques, such as a stripped back - to - basic environment, evictions, weekly tasks and competitions set by Big Brother, and the "Diary Room" (or "Confession Room") where housemates convey their private thoughts to the camera and reveal their nominees for eviction . </P> <P> The first version of Big Brother was broadcast in 1999 on Veronica in the Netherlands . In the first season of Big Brother, the house was very basic . Although essential amenities such as running water, furniture and a limited ration of food were provided, luxury items were often forbidden . This added a survivalist element to the show, increasing the potential for social tension . Nearly all later series provide a modern house for the contest with a jacuzzi, sauna, VIP suite, loft and other luxuries . </P>

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