Yahoo Video to host 'viewer created' TV content

By Steve Malone

Posted on 21 Sep 2006 at 10:39

In another twist in the current rush for anything resembling video on the web, Yahoo has signed a deal with Al Gore's (yes, that one) Current TV service to create to create a new social network based around TV style channels.

Current TV, a pioneer in what is called 'viewer created content' allows programme makers to put their own videos online. By partnering with Yahoo, the service hopes that the portal's expertise in building communities will lead to a rapid expansion in traffic.

Yahoo! and Current TV plan to develop new advertising formats and integration opportunities. Advertisers will be able to purchase premier sponsorships and other packages, as well as pre-roll video ads and media banners on key web pages. While the banners are fairly standard across Yahoo! properties, this will be the first time that Yahoo has introduced video ads before the requested content appears.
The Yahoo! Current Network kicks off with four channels on Yahoo! Video that allow users to view and upload videos. They include 'Yahoo! Current Buzz': a daily feature that reflects what the Yahoo! community is searching for, with segments that showcase the best of what's buzzing around the world and on the Web; 'Yahoo! Current Action': dealing in sports news and videos; 'Yahoo! Current Driver': dealing in cars from hot rods to super cars (although Al Gore takes a very negative view on excessive car use?), and 'Yahoo! Current Traveler': showing travelling videos and news uploaded from around the world. Additional channels will be launching as part of the Yahoo! Current Network over the next few months. The portal plans to have eight channels available by the end of 2007.
Each week the best submission from each Yahoo! Current channel will be broadcast on Current's own service. The programme maker will be paid $500 by Current TV.