YouTube started to test
a new platform for live streaming. "Starting at 8:00 a.m. PT, we will begin a limited trial of a new live streaming platform in conjunction with four of our partners:
Howcast,
Next New Networks,
Rocketboom and
Young Hollywood. This new platform integrates live streaming directly into YouTube channels; all broadcasters need is a webcam or external USB/FireWire camera."
YouTube says that live streaming is "a natural evolution to online video that adds an extra level of engagement", but this is also a feature that could make YouTube's integration with Google TV even more useful. YouTube wants to become the central hub for online video, so it now focuses on adding more premium content:
live events,
music videos,
movies and
TV shows,
movie rentals.
