Ustream Introduces Pay-per-View Streaming

YouTube has proved that online video is here to stay and that more and more content online will be in video form. Last year, it became apparent that live streaming was also going to play a big role with the main players in the market, Ustream and Justin.TV, getting some real traction. But, just like YouTube, live streaming video has to find a way to pay for itself and not even Google has been able to crack this nut, though it looks like it may be getting close to, what hope is there for the up-and-comers? Well, one option is pay-per-view and we'll find out soon enough if it’s viable, as Ustream has just launched a pay-per-view service following Justin.TV's similar move.

The service is aimed at artists or brands who want to offer premium content to their fans and explore this monetization option. So far, they had to rely on the advertising served alongside the video streams, an option which doesn't prove particularly profitable for the authors or the streaming service alike.

Ustream will start with streaming a show by comedian Dane Cook. His “ISolated INcident” stand-up routine on February 6th will be streamed online on a pay-per-view basis. Fans will have to fork out $5 to watch the show, but Ustream is promising a number, it hopes enticing, bonuses to set itself apart from the cable or satellite providers.

One option traditional outlets can't compete with is the integrated chat which is available along with the streaming. Fans will be able to talk to each other and even ask Dane Cook questions. They'll also get to see the opening acts and also access some backstage content. This is obviously just a first step but if it proves successful the streaming service hopes to sign some big acts. If Ustream can deliver, it may prove a very solid alternative to paying for the same content on TV, but it's up to the fans to decide if the $5 are worth it.