Sky And Google Unveil Broadband Alliance

BSky and Google have announced plans to collaborate on web-based services to Sky's community of broadband internet customers.
The collaboration will involve three key areas: video, communications and searching.
Sky will launch a multi-platform User Generated Video (UGV) 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 enjoy a fully customised version of Google's email product, 'Google Mail'. In addition, Sky will explore opportunities to provide further services such as Google's VoIP (voice over internet protocol).
Google will provide its industry leading 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 with 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.
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 fast-growing broadband platform.
No financial terms of the multi-year agreements have been disclosed.
(SP/CD)