Joost, Viacom Ink Deal

 
By Sherri February 21, 2007



Viacom has signed on to be one of the “key content partners” on the Joost Internet television service when it goes live.

The deal gives Joost access to programming from MTV Networks, BET Networks and Paramount Pictures.

According to the media release, Joost will give users free access to thousands of programs not normally available on the Web. “Through Joost, viewers can watch programming from many of Viacom’s brands on their computers through a customizable platform with advanced television viewing features such as links that lead to more information or related websites based on the content; and a variety of plug-in applications, such as instant messaging, message boards, and news tickers.”

The service is available right now in limited beta, and is touted as being the first online, global TV distribution platform, bringing together advertisers, content owners and viewers in an interactive, community-driven environment.

With Viacom coming onboard, Joost is well on its way to seeing if this model of free viewing and ads will work. It’s my guess, the site will be a big hit if the commercials aren’t too invasive. The short ads on Innertube and NBC.com are just the right length and frequency, anything more would be an annoyance making the iTunes $1.99 seem more than worth the price.

Related:
The Venice Project Becomes Joost
Skype Gets Into Online TV

Labels: bet, itunes, joost, mtv, paramount pictures, viacom