ABC is seeking partners to more widely distribute its online programming, signaling a change in its go-it-alone strategy. The network is in talks with several web sites, including AOL, Comcast, MSN, and MySpace. ABC isn’t opening up completely, however. It is insisting that all partners use its own video player, to ensure that viewers have a consistent experience across sites.
THE NAB and several top industry representatives are joining together to oppose a tech industry coalition representing Microsoft, Google, HP, Intel, Philips, and others, which wants permission to sell unlicensed wireless devices that will operate on the “white space” between channels. The NAB-led group says the devices will create interference for digital television signals, and has launched a new advertising campaign to spread the word. The FCC tested a Microsoft-built device in late July, and found enough interference to block the product, for now.
DIRECTV has chosen TANDBERG TELEVISION‘s “WatchPoint Workflow System” for its new set-top, mobile, and web on-demand service. WatchPoint is expected to deliver a comprehensive automation solution for processing and distributing video for multiple platforms. DirecTV uses additional Tandberg solutions for compression, production, and content management.
CBS is adding 29 CBS-owned TV affiliates and 144 CBS-owned radio stations to its growing online Audience Network. CBS will provide its video content to the sites of affiliates, which will in turn provide CBS with local sports, news, and weather content. Other members of the Audience Network include AOL, MSN, and JOOST.
MYSPACE will distribute content for MY DAMN CHANNEL. The two companies have struck a deal that will bring MDC’s comedic, professionally-produced content to MySpace TV. My Damn Channel boasts content from Harry Shearer, of the Simpsons, comedian Andy Milonakis, and others.
WPP has acquired SCHEMATIC, an independent interactive agency for an undisclosed amount. Schematic’s clients include Coca-Cola, Walt Disney, and Target. WPP recently acquired 24/7 Real Media for $649 million.