News
MSN Video Player fails to impress
Microsoft has finally formally launched its new online video service in the United Kingdom. Following a six month trial, the new-look offering now includes 1,000 hours of full-length television programmes, supplemented by other video clips and film trailers that were previously available on the MSN portal. On the evidence of the launch proposition, building a credible programming library has been a challenge.
Online video viewing complements TV
Viewers want their internet TV. More than 170 million individuals viewed over 30 billion videos online in the United States in January, over a third of them on YouTube. Hulu was the next most popular site, with 900 million views, which is ten percent less than the previous month. Online video is increasingly seen on the television screen. One in four Americans watch internet television more than once a week, but see it in addition to traditional television rather than as a substitute, concludes a new study from In-Stat.
Google dabbles with Dish on television Googlebox
Google is apparently testing a television search service with Dish Network. The internet search company really has yet to break into the lucrative television advertising market. The satellite television operator meanwhile may have a more immediate concern in view of its patent problems with TiVo, which has been pioneering its own search and advertising solutions.
3DTV sales forecasts led by supply not demand
There will be nearly 50 million 3DTV displays sold worldwide in 2015, up from just over 3 million in 2010, according to one forecast. Within the same timeframe around half the homes in the United States could have a 3D capable display, according to another. These projections reflect the aspirations of suppliers, rather than clear evidence of consumer demand.
YouTube approaches billion dollar annual revenues
YouTube could receive revenues approaching a billion dollars this year, apparently. Google does not break out revenues for YouTube, although it has indicated it could turn a profit this year. An analyst estimates that YouTube will earn $945 million in 2010 and exceed a billion dollars in gross revenue in 2011.
Virgin slams BBC on Canvas
The chief executive of Virgin Media has roundly criticised the BBC for its handling of Project Canvas. Neil Berkett told the annual Cable Congress in Brussels that the consultation process was “an absolute whitewash in terms of any form of governance.” He said the BBC Trust is “incapable of regulating the BBC’s activities in an objective way”. The consultation on the proposed joint venture involving the main terrestrial broadcasters has also been criticised by Sky. Even the Digital TV Group has argued that the partners in the project, most of which are among its members, have failed to engage with the wider industry.