As MySpace continues to lag behind Facebook in terms of market-share, the social network has finally decided to let users record videos directly via a webcam. YouTube and Facebook have already offered such options, and it is a little surprising that it has taken MySpace so long to do the same.
The timing is actually appropriate, however as MySpace Music is set to launch very soon. Adam Ostrow at Mashable writes:
Although MySpace is a distant #2 to YouTube in terms of online video, the webcam feature could have unique appeal to the site’s audience, which is still a haven for musicians and entertainers. Giving those users the ability to send quick video bulletins to their fans makes a lot of sense, and could perhaps improve MySpace’s market-share, at least by a few decimal points.
Musicians of course aren’t the only ones that can benefit from such a feature. “The MySpace community is a creative group of individuals who we expect will fully utilize the direct upload with creative shows, commentaries and vlogs,” said Jason Kirk, VP of MySpaceTV. “Whether you are a musician, videoblogger, budding actor or an everyday user just looking for a job and using this tool to post a video resume, MySpaceTV makes it easier than ever before to with ‘Direct Record and Upload’.”
This could also serve as a great tool for businesses to integrate into their social media marketing campaigns, particularly those looking to get in on the upward online video advertising trend. Of course, businesses would have to be willing to adopt social media first.
To access the Direct Video Record & Upload function, log into your MySpace account and click the “upload a video” link, then click on the “Record a Video Now” button. Users will be able to share videos just like normal, and embed them on other sites.
