Joost, Viacom Sign Deal for Online Video

Global entertainment company, Viacom, and Internet television service, Joost, have tied-up to offer Viacom’s range of brands and programming for free to consumers on the Joost distribution platform. Under the agreement, Viacom’s divisions — MTV Networks, BET Networks and Paramount Pictures — will provide television and theatrical programming on the Joost platform.

Joost will allow users to have free access to thousands of programs and channels not readily available on the Web. Through Joost, viewers can watch programming from many of Viacom’s brands on their computers through a customizable platform with television viewing features such as links that lead to more information or related websites based on the content; and plug-in applications, such as instant messaging, message boards and news tickers.

Currently available in limited beta, Joost combines TV and Internet by offering viewers a TV-like experience with the choice, control and flexibility of Web 2.0. Joost can be accessed with a broadband Internet connection and offers broadcast-quality content to viewers for free.

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“We’re extremely pleased to be working with Joost, and couldn’t be prouder to be a key partner in the launch of the next generation in broadband video technology,” said Philippe Dauman, Viacom President and Chief Executive Officer. “We have the number one portfolio of entertainment sites in the world and unrivaled distribution on mobile devices, but we’re determined to keep pushing and growing our digital presence and bring our programming to audiences on every platform and device that they want. In addition to strong partnerships we have with traditional distributors, we will continue to seek out partners like Joost, which has created an exciting breakthrough platform that represents not only a fantastic user experience, but one that is built on a compelling and sustainable business model that respects both content creators and consumers.”

Janus Friis, founder of Joost said, “We built this platform from the ground up, with companies like Viacom in mind. Our platform provides scalable distribution, in a completely safe environment that protects the interest of content owners and advertisers, while delighting viewers. We’re extremely excited about this partnership and look forward to enabling Viacom to reach new audiences for its new and classic programming.”