Google unveils YouTube for AdSense

by Hayley Pinkerfield, Revolution UK 10-Oct-07, 11:00

SAN FRANCISCO- Google is set to distribute YouTube videos via a new version of AdSense, in an attempt to maximise its acquisition of the video-sharing site.

Google is positioning the move to its network of AdSense customers as a way to add video content to their sites and earn extra revenue. It claims that adding video units displaying YouTube content will ‘build stickiness' on their sites.

AdSense publishers will also need a YouTube account to use the service. The two accounts will be merged on registering for the AdSense video programme. They can select content from individual YouTube content partners, or have video automatically targeted to their site content based on keywords and categories.

YouTube ‘video units' will be supported by rotating text advertising along the bottom of the player and banner ads at the top. The adverts will only appear on participating publishers' pages - and not on YouTube. Advertisers will be charged on a cost-per-click basis. Google will share advertising revenue with web site owners and content providers.

Initial YouTube content partners for the service include LonelyGirl15, TV Guide Broadband, Expert Village, Mondo Media, Extreme Elements, and Ford Models.

Google has said that it intends to use AdSense to syndicate various types of content other than video in the future. Video units are currently only available in the US for English language sites, with no plans to roll out globally as yet.