CBS announces new online video strategy
CBS has announced a major new online video strategy called CBS Interactive Audience Network.For now, that means distribution deals with AOL, Microsoft, CNET, Comcast, Joost, Bebo, Brightcove, Netvibes, Sling Media, and Veoh. Curiously absent from the list is YouTube. All of the content, which will include full-length television episodes and video clips will be advertiser-supported.
While most of the partners are online video websites and portals, Sling Media is in the business of letting users stream their own media over the internet. Sling's upcoming SlingCatcher box will be a device for playing web video on a television set. But the company is also branching into the online video market with its upcoming Clip+Sling service that will let viewers share video clips with one another, with the permission of content owners like CBS.
Sling Media plans to launch a Clip+Sling online video site this summer, which will feature CBS content. But users will also be watch the videos using SlingPlayer software, or using the upcoming SlingCatcher box, which lets users watch web video on their television sets.
Some of the content to be made available will include clips and episodes from CSI, The Late Show with David Letterman, Survivor, Showtime Championship Boxing, and CSTV Game of the Week.
