Disney-YouTube Deal

When we were discussing different control points in the media and entertainment architecture, I separated unlicensed content from licensed content and highlighted YouTube as a key player dealing with the former. But, we know that monetization is rather fuzzy with just unlicensed content and YouTube (Google) needs to figure out a way to be a key player in the way licensed content is distributed through hulu and others.
So, it is not surprising to see Disney enter into a landmark deal recently. This announcement (via BBC) highlights some of the key details.

Walt Disney and YouTube have signed a new deal to allow Disney to launch its own channels on the video sharing website. Highlights from Disney's ESPN sports channel and clips from its TV shows will be made available to watch over the next couple of months. A key part of the agreement is that Disney will have the right to put adverts in its output.

YouTube is keen to be seen as an outlet for high quality video. In a statement, a Disney spokesperson said the deal offers "the opportunity to reach a broader, online audience as well as extend the reach of our advertisers". YouTube is by far the world's most popular video sharing website. However, it's coming under more pressure from Google to start converting its huge user numbers into cash.

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It should not surprise us at all to see more deals..

YouTube Encroaching on iTunes

Here is one more in the continuing set of moves by different companies jockeying to establish their positions in the network era.
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Google is attempting to go against iTunes with this experimental initiative as it explores ways to monetize its YouTube capability and providing a connection through Google Checkout. Wonder what Steve Jobs may see to Eric Schmidt when they meet next?