Skype founders have launched a beta version of the Vernice Project called Joost. Currently, Joost is a limited beta, invitation only, and the only time table that the website provides is that the final form of the service will be released in 2007. "Yesterday, we were The Venice Project. Today, we're Joost. Tomorrow, we're yours! Imagine having infinite choice, and TV that is truly interactive. TV anywhere, anytime... This is the year. Joost is coming", reveals a message posted on the website.

Joost is an initiative of Skype founders Niklas Zennstrom and Janus Friis. In fact, the idea for Joost precedes the one for Skype, but was postponed due to infrastructure issues. Details are scarce at this time but Joost needs widespread broadband and powerful computers in order to function properly.

"Joost is a new way of watching TV on the Internet, which uses new and established technologies to provide the best of both the Internet and TV worlds. We're in the process of making it as TV-like as we can, with programmers, channels and adverts. You can also see some things that we think will enhance the TV experience: searching for programmers and channels, for example, as well as social features like chat. There are many more new features to come," promises Joost.

Joost is spread over five countries and employs in excess of 150 people. Niklas Zennstrom and Janus Friis aim to deliver a truly global adventure for a truly global community.

The Joost service will function via software that needs to be downloaded and installed on the user's machine. Users will then be able to surf through channels, watch TV content and even chat.