GOOGLE will announce a new service that turns the AdSense network into a video distribution tool. Web sites will be allowed to embed ad-supported YouTube content that is contextually relevant to their site, similar to how they currently embed relevant ads. The move will give video creators a distribution channel that extends beyond YouTube.com, as well as a new way to monetize their content. Ad revenue will be split between site publishers, video publishers, and Google.
BITTORRENT will announce a new service today that allows online video companies to tap into its P2P network and improve online video playback. The Delivery Network Accelerator‘s first client is Brightcove, which serves video for CBS, MTV Networks, Media 3.0, and other top video destinations. Ashwin Navin, BitTorrent’s president, estimates that “DNA” can cut transmission costs by 50%.
TIVO will announce the availability of the RHAPSODY music service on its DVR boxes today. Users will be able to access the service on their television sets, using their remote controls to browse over 4 million songs. Rhapsody is one of the top music subscription services, and is a joint venture between RealNetworks and MTV Networks. The move is part of TiVo’s efforts to differentiate itself from generic DVRs.
THE FCC has moved the upcoming, heavily-anticipated wireless auction to January 24, 2008. On that date, 62 megahertz of the 700-MHz band will be on the block, broken up into several different groupings. Bidding will be anonymous, and the Commission has set a total combined reserve price of $10 billion.
SONY has announced a new in-game advertising division. The unit will focus on placing dynamic ads in Playstation games and on the Playstation Network. The move is an attempt to generate a new revenue stream and catch up with Microsoft. In-game advertising is already available on the Xbox, via Microsoft’s recently-acquired Massive.