Google wants its MTV and has tapped Viacom to team-test a video distribution model intended for use by consumers, web publishers and advertisers. Under the deal, Google will distribute ad-supported content from MTV Networks.
The companies call the offering “the first-of-its-kind” and anticipate the new model to create targeted marketing vehicles for advertisers. It will also serve to promote programming that is available via cable, satellite and other distribution platforms carrying MTVN’s on-air channels. The companies expect to test it later this month.
This is the first time integrated video programming and advertising will be made available directly to Google’s AdSense network, as well as the first time MTV programming will be available to consumers on an ad-supported basis on sites outside MTVN’s proprietary sites.
“We’re excited to work with MTV Networks on new ways of distributing its content to consumers via the Internet and on Google Video,” said Eric Schmidt, Google’s CEO. “With the combination of our video technology, and extensive advertiser and publisher network, Google is in a leading position to help content owners, web publishers and advertisers generate interest and increase revenue opportunities.”
Also, Google will offer MTV Networks programming on a download-to-own platform via Google Video, for $1.99 per episode. Initially, the duo will offer full-length episodes from Comedy Central’s “Chappelle’s Show” and “South Park”; MTV’s Beavis & Butthead; “Laguna Beach”; “Gauntlet 2″;”My Super Sweet Sixteen”; “Jackass”; and “Punk’d”; MTV2’s “WonderShowzen”; Nickelodeon’s Avatar: The Last Airbender; “SpongeBob SquarePants”; “Zoey 101”; “The Fairly OddParents”; “Dora The Explorer”; The N’s Beyond the Break; “South of Nowhere”; and O’Grady”.
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