YouTube will be available on television as of March after the video-sharing site concluded a deal with UK satellite television operator Freesat.
The new “channel” will allow Freesat users to access YouTube videos and upload new content via the Freesat set-top box, in the form of an HTML5 app.
“We’re happy to be working with Freesat so that Freesat users can now access YouTube from the platform. Our creator community is developing quality content that will delight and inspire viewers and we’re pleased to be able to bring it to people in new ways,” said Peter Sherman, product marketing manager for YouTube.
The move sees YouTube – which records some 800 million views per month – further position itself as a quasi-rival to broadcasters, having launched 60 broadcast-style channels on the website last year in a US$150 million push. The likes BBC WorldWide, Endemol (creators of Big Brother) and Jamie Oliver’s company Fresh One provide shows for YouTube.
