In a striking move, MSN Local Edition has brokered content agreements with NBC Local Media and Hearst Television, stepping up its offerings to the digital news audience.
Bolstering Local Content with New Partnerships
MSN, a division of Microsoft, has stated that these partnerships are set to boost its news video content. Specifically, they will provide MSN with roughly 3,000 news video clips weekly, spanning 36 local media markets.
This significant expansion of local news content, set to go live in January 2010, offers users more diverse and relevant news tailored to their specific geographical locations.
Microsoft’s Foothold in the Future of Local and Video Advertising
Microsoft perceives a tremendous opportunity with local and video advertising, given that local online advertising is expected to balloon to a substantial $10 billion industry by 2013. This strategic move underscores Microsoft’s commitment to leverage this growth and provide more targeted advertising to its users.
Microsoft also underlines the increasing popularity of online videos, with 62 percent of online adults reportedly having watched a video online. Even more compelling, 35 percent have viewed a television show or movie online, indicating the shift of audience consumption habits to digital platforms.
“Locals Only” Content from NBC Local Media
The deal will see NBC Local Media providing video clips from their “Locals Only” websites. These local news segments will cover nine key American markets, including Los Angeles, San Francisco/Bay Area, Dallas-Fort Worth, Philadelphia, Chicago, New York, Washington, DC, Connecticut, and Miami.
Hearst Television’s Local Video Clips
Hearst Television will also contribute by offering local video clips from a wide range of cities such as Albuquerque, Baltimore, Boston, Burlington, VT / Plattsburgh, NY, Cincinnati, and more.
This combination of content sources positions MSN Local Edition as a leading provider of local news in the digital space, catering to a broad range of user interests and geographical locations.
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