Google makes video experiments
Google launched a Video Upload Program in an effort to expand its search service. The way the new service works is that video files are uploaded by users. The idea is that the end user will be able to search, play and eventually purchase uploaded work, such as video clips and so on. Google’s founder Larry Page stated at a conference last week that this arena is an experiment for Google at this point and that what would come out of it is yet to be seen.
For now, video submissions can be uploaded to Google one way. However, as Google indicated in its blog this will change soon.. The service is still in beta and it is accepting uploads of any size but the search, purchase and play options are pending approval.
This new service may be used by individuals, groups, and corporations. Their video files will be hosted and indexed with Google’s video search engine. Some experts speculate that the fact that anyone can sell its video directly to the interested party presents many new opportunities. For instance producers can to work from home. Also, if a person has captured an interesting footage he or she may sell it directly through the new service as such options seem part of the plan. There is a concern on the types of files being uploaded which will probably range from home videos, porn, news and more.
Google launched its Google Video back in January, 2005. This service offers access to transcripts of broadcast TV and details on the broadcast. Users can watch videos at no cost or for a fee but not all uploads are searchable. Google seems to be a bit behind its competition when it comes to its new video experiments. Last year, Yahoo launched its Video Search feature which allowed producers cater to its users via Media RSS. Yahoo is also developing content projects with studios. AOL launched Singingfish, its online streaming video service. In addition, a few more similar services are currently available on the internet. Some of these services allow users to search TV programming on cable channels and can play parts of the content containing certain keywords.
The challenge is how to keep the service clean of obscenity as the content is hosted by third parties. Another challenge is making sure there are no copyright issues with the content. Google actually advises users uploading videos to make sure that they own the rights of their works. Google will be complying with the digital copyright act and will penalize those who do not comply. In its terms of use, Google asks for a release of certain liabilities and it also includes provisions for royalty-free, non-exclusive rights to host, transmit, copy, distribute, analyze and create algorithms and more based on users videos.
Google also will receives 30 percent of the price of the video if it is sold and may charge for storage and service after some initial time or conditions.
Google’s new service goes well with the recent trend of most internet giants and it is hard to believe that the Google does not have bigger plans with this experiment. The question is what can we expect next?
