After MySpace, Murdoch ties with Google
Google's first international partner for shared video, email and content provision is BSkyB, with whom the search giant is building a broadband platform for the UK. Days after BT announced its entry into the TV/Broadband area, the UK's largest pay-TV provider 39% owned by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp and run by his son Lachlan has announced it will offer user-created video content on the platform.
From http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6214220.stm...
Satellite television company BSkyB has said it will work with internet search giant Google in order to develop its broadband services and products.
BSkyB, which offers a free broadband internet service to customers, said it would focus on three areas: search and adverts, videos and communications.
The firm are the latest to join forces and try to meet consumer calls for on-demand media and internet products.
Earlier this week, UK phone firm BT launched its broadband TV service.
Global deployment
Under the plans, BSkyB will launch a user-generated video service that will run off Google's video content tools. Google recently bought the market leader in user-generated videos YouTube for $1.65bn.
BSkyB will also offer a customised version of Google's Gmail e-mail service.
Any revenues generated by directing BSkyB consumers to websites via sponsored advertising links will be shared between the TV firm and Google, the companies said.
"Sky will be Google's first partner globally to deploy Google's suite of search, advertising, communications and video services," the companies said.
James Murdoch, BSkyB's chief executive, said: "These agreements will bring Sky customers a valuable set of services from the world's leading search company."
Changing markets
Media and internet firms are increasingly looking for ways to enhance their businesses and offer a broader range of services to consumers.
On Monday, BT announced a tie-up with Irish sports broadcaster Setanta that will allow it to broadcast live Premiership football matches.
The deal was a vital element of its new Vision television service, which it hopes will turn it into a full-blown multimedia company.