LONDON – British Sky Broadcasting and Google said this week they will work together to deliver new Google-powered web-based services to Sky’s community of broadband Internet customers.
The wide-ranging set of multi-year agreements sees two of the world’s technology and entertainment leaders join forces to create a compelling and customized experience for Sky Broadband customers.
Rupert Murdoch-owned Sky will be Google’s first partner globally to deploy Google’s suite of search, advertising, communications and video services, all of which will be tailored and branded for Sky’s broadband platform. Sky’s broadband customers will have access to the full benefits of Google’s evolving suite of products for PC, TV and mobile.
For example, Sky will launch a multi-platform user generated video portal powered by the first global deployment of Google’s syndicated video content tools. The site will allow users to edit, upload and share their own video content, including the facility to upload and download from a mobile phone. The UGV portal will form part of a content-rich experience for Sky Broadband customers that will enhance the appeal of Sky’s broadband services, build community and promote Sky content to online audiences.
Sky Broadband customers will get a fully customized version of Google’s email product, ‘Google Mail’, which will use the popular ‘@sky.com’ e-mail address. Powered by Google with a user interface and functionality customized to Sky’s unique specifications, the platform will also offer access to key communications applications "that attract and deepen relationships with Internet users, such as contacts, calendar and instant messaging," says the press release.
In addition, Sky will explore opportunities to provide further services such as Google’s voice over internet protocol telephony services, enhanced storage and future product developments.
Google will provide its search tools and targeted search advertising across Sky’s portfolio of online sites. The two companies will also explore future forms of web, TV and mobile advertising. Revenue generated by click-throughs on sponsored links will be shared between Sky and Google, increasing Sky’s exposure to the fastest growing segment of the UK’s advertising market.
