YOUTUBE has updated its mobile site to include almost its entire library of videos, the social-networking functions and more. Users will be able to upload videos directly from phones to YouTube.com. YouTube also released a free downloadable application that can be installed on phones to access the video site without using a mobile browser. Combined, the announcements greatly improve YouTube’s position as a mobile video source.
THE NTIA said that converter boxes will be available in stores on February 18th, one year before analog TV is shutdown for good. That day the NTIA will begin processing the 3.7 million converter coupon requests that have already been submitted by consumers. The group also detailed a multi-stage public information campaign meant to guide consumers through the upcoming transition. The final stage, scheduled for the fall, will give users one final wake-up call before analog TV is turned off. It will be titled “Life Without Television.”
THE WGA announced interim deals with LIONSGATE and MARVEL while conducting the third day of informal talks with the AMPTP. Lionsgate will get its writing staff back just in time to begin pre-production on both “Weeds” and “Mad Men.” In related news, Guild members have ratified a new contract with CBS News, bringing an end to the standoff between news writers and the network.
NIELSEN has launched NORA, a VOD ratings service that utilizes set-top box data. “NORA,” which is part of Nielsen DigitalPlus, stands for “Nielsen On-demand Reporting & Analytics.” Comcast is the first customer to subscribe and will begin using the service immediately.
LIBERTY MEDIA filed suit against IAC accusing Barry Diller of attempting a “corporate coup” in his plans to split IAC into several companies. IAC’s current dual-class voting structure gives John Malone’s Liberty 61.7% of the voting power, even though it only owns 30% of the stock. Barry Diller’s plans to restructure the business involves creating several spin-offs with single-tier voting structures, which would erase Librerty’s current control. IAC has also filed suit against Librerty seeking the right to dictate its own breakup conditions.
PLUS: Vudu has slashed prices for its VOD box in light of Apple TV’s recent price drop. Microsoft joined the Dataportabiltiy Work Group. And Rupert Murdoch decided that WSJ.com shouldn’t be free after all. Instead, it should raise prices.