CNET TV, the UK’s first online video service specialising in producing original content for people passionate about music, film & television, games and technology, has been launched 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.
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% 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, including the Mondo Movie guys.
