Fox / NBC add CNET to the premium online video service

Just received a press release from the new "premium" online video service from News Corp. and NBC Universal. After the buzz in March, April seemed pretty quiet for the venture. Today they are announcing that CNET Networks has signed a multi-year content and distribution deal.

From the release:

"A pioneering online media company, CNET Networks has long understood the value of creating richer, more authentic experiences online," said George Kliavkoff, Chief Digital Officer, NBC Universal and interim CEO of the joint venture. "We are delighted that they will be joining us as both a content provider and distributor, ensuring that we continue to add to the depth and breadth of premium video available on our site and on our video network. In addition, we further extend the reach of our protected content to their highly engaged user base."

"CNET Networks is proud to be the first online-focused content company to offer its original video to this new venture," said Neil Ashe, CEO of CNET Networks. "We are excited to bring video from NBC Universal, Fox, and other high-quality content providers to our users. This relationship further demonstrates our commitment to creating an engaging online experience at our market-leading brands."

While I don't visit CNET like I did in the '90s, this should certainly help their visibility. I am really looking forward to this new video service. While it won't compete directly with YouTube, it might start to give me what I want in television online.

Additionally they note, "The News Corporation and NBC Universal venture's content will be distributed via some of the most popular sites on the Web, including AOL, MSN, MySpace, Yahoo and Comcast. The new NBCU/News Corp. joint venture will have offices in Los Angeles and New York. Permanent management and corporate branding will be announced shortly."