Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Internet TV: 57,000 Channels, So Something's On

The shift is nearly completion: every publisher and every topic will soon have its own Internet TV channel. Video is to 2008 what social networks was in 2007.

Robert Scoble is moving his technology webcasts to FastCompany.TV backed by FastCompany and Inc (where I've contributed previously) parent Mansuetto Ventures.

There are also new channels by the striking writers, the BBC and USA Today, plus channels on surfing, swimming, and even one for babies (can you get a toddler sized keyboard?).

This influx of video content will take eyes away from the tube and change the Internet experience as people get more used to watching streaming content. Just yesterday I watched some of the Senate hearing on steroids in baseball and the Democratic presidential debate from my desk. (Full disclosure -- I'm also involved in launching an Internet TV channel).

The nature of the content is different. Videos can be shorter, and there's more focus on the depth of the dialog than television, which prioritizes inane imagery and broad appeal. For example, Vator.tv features lively in-depth discussions on innovations without the glitz or silly banter of TV's talking heads.

Advertising platforms, video advertising content, and distribution networks are all needed to make these channels viable. This influx will also have a huge impact on search as the engines must integrate video into general results, as well as creating new navigation features that goes beyond keywords.

There will come a day soon when you can do without a cable connection -- anything that can go out over coax will be streamed, and IP-based video offers so much more in variety -- if you can find what you want.

Posted By John Gartner at 09:08 AM
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