Google has launched a new online video service allowing consumers to upload their own videos and view content from a selection of television networks and independent producers.
Google has launched a new video online service allowing consumers to upload their own videos and view content from a selection of television networks and independent producers.

A number of UK media partners have signed up to the service including Talkback Thames and ITN. They will initially use the site - video.google.co.uk- to offer 'free promotional excerpts'.

Unlike the US version, Google Video Store, which launched in the beginning of January, there are no immediate plans to enable UK customers to rent or buy premium content.

ITN said it would take relevant content from its moving imagery business ITN Source, and find new ways to package through its multimedia division ITN On.

Mark Wood, chief executive of ITN, said: 'As one of Google Video's original launch partners in the US earlier this year, ITN is very excited to enter into the next stage of global roll out of this unique service.'

Alex Mahon, chief operating office of Talkback Thames, which is behind comedies Green Wing, Smack the Ponyand Bo Selecta, said the site was a critical route to reach viewers directly and 'promote content in brand new markets'.

She said: 'It also allows us to gain invaluable experience and knowledge of new audiences enabling us to more effectively target our content direct to the viewer'.

Patrick Walker, Google Video's head of content partnerships, said more and more partners were joining up to be a part of Google Video, which is also being rolled out across much of Europe and Canada.

He stated, however, that the most important aspect of the site is that it will be user-generated, allowing anybody to upload their own video clips and share them with Google Video users worldwide. There is no limit to the file size that users can upload.

Joanna Shields, European director of partnerships, said: 'The rise of online video is making it easier for people to express themselves. By launching Google Video in these new markets we will enable more people in more countries to search for, upload and share video content in more languages.'