CNET TV Launches As UK Switches On To Online Video

November 28, 2007; 06:17 AM

London -- CNET TV (www.cnettv.co.uk), the UK’s first online video service specialising in producing original content for people passionate about music, film & television, games and technology, was launched today by CNET Networks UK.

Audiences will be able to access a wide variety of original content such as Encoded, a weekly music show taking a digital look at the new tracks, gigs and news from emerging and established bands; and Reel Report, an intelligent look at the contemporary film scene including interviews with Anton Corbijn and Sienna Miller. Other programmes include: Start/Select which looks at video games; Car Tech, which lifts the bonnet on the technology powering the latest cars on the market; and, shortly after launch, CNET TV: Live, which will showcase acoustic sets by bands filmed in CNET Networks’ studios and at the music festivals that took place over the summer.

The launch of CNET TV reflects a significant shift in the way that audiences are consuming media as the number of broadband connections in the UK continues to soar. Currently, 80% of the UK’s broadband users watch online video content, with each person watching an average of 80 video streams per month[1].

Whilst sites such as YouTube and Joost continue to be popular, there is an increasing demand for professional, original video content amongst the viewing audience. A recent survey found that 62%[2] of online video users prefer to watch professionally produced online videos as opposed to user-generated content.

Following CNET Networks UK’s investment in a dedicated High Definition (HD) online video studio in April 2007, audiences will be able to watch broadcast-quality web TV programmes, produced by CNET Networks’ highly experienced and passionate broadcast team.

Jill Orr, Managing Director, CNET Networks UK said: “Online video is an exciting space right now. More people are looking to the web for video entertainment and information and finding there is a lack of high quality content for audiences who consider online as a real alternative to broadcast media. CNET Networks UK already delivers more than 3 million video streams every month, and we look forward to delivering a wide range of exciting, professional video content to audiences who are passionate about music, film and television, games and technology.”

HP has signed up to be the site’s exclusive sponsor for the first two months from launch, owning all the advertising slots and running video pre-roll advertising.

About CNET Networks UK

CNET Networks UK is a part of CNET Networks Inc. (NASDAQ: CNET) , an interactive media company that builds brands for people and the things they are passionate about, such as gaming, music, entertainment, technology, business, food, and parenting. Founded in 1992, CNET Networks has a strong presence in the US, Asia, and Europe.

CNET Networks UK focuses on business technology, personal technology and entertainment categories through seven UK-focused websites: ZDNet.co.uk, silicon.com, atlarge.com, CNET.co.uk, CNET TV, GameSpot UK and SmartPlanet.com. CNET Networks UK also delivers one-to-one services through its direct marketing arm CNET Direct.