14 DAY TRIAL // YouTube is continuously threatened by its competitors which struggle to bring attractive content to their pages in order to challenge the Google video sharing platform. AOL Video is the last technology that started a campaign against YouTube and signed a deal with ABC, the owners of popular TV series such as Desperate Housewives, Lost, Dancing with the Stars or Ugly Betty. The AOL video service will become the exclusive publisher of ABC's content which attracted an impressive number of fans all around the world.
"We're excited to partner with AOL on this groundbreaking agreement, which not only expands the reach of our quality programming, but ensures the finest online viewing experience available through our own broadband player," said Anne Sweeney, co-chair, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney-ABC Television Group.
"As we experiment with new ways to grow our digital business, we remain focused on finding smart, new methods to connect viewers to the content they want and brands they love on the platforms they choose. This deal not only provides additional viewing opportunities for our consumers, but also gives our affiliates and advertisers another way to reach our audience and associate with our powerful network brands."
Most of the YouTube-like technologies which were supposed to conquer the video sharing market and compete with the Google product, signed deals with powerful content providers that would bring attractive videos on their pages.
"Based on the success ABC affiliates have had online in the past year since launching the broadband video player on their own sites, we believe this initiative with AOL offers tremendous potential for increased exposure and promotional opportunities for local stations," said Ray Cole, chairman, ABC Television Affiliates Association. "We look forward to working together with ABC and AOL to break new ground in the digital distribution arena."