FACEBOOK has opened up Facebook Platform to other social-networking sites in a bold response to Google’s OpenSocial application standard. The social-net will license its model and technology to allow other sites to implement Facebook applications. Social-net BEBO is the first to embrace this new arrangement, claiming to offer the “Open Applications Platform.” We may be witnessing the start of a new era in operating system wars, where Apple and Microsoft have been replaced by Google and Facebook.
PARAMOUNT PICTURES will kick off an extensive experiment by premiering Jackass 2.5 on Blockbuster’s Movielink service. The hour-long film cost less than $2 million to make and features a combination of new material and out-takes from the franchise’s previous release. The movie will be offered as a free, ad-supported stream on Movielink, an exclusivity granted in exchange for a seven-figure license-fee guarantee. After that, Jackass 2.5 will be packaged as a DVD, sold as downloads on iTunes and Amazon, streamed with ad-support on Joost and made available for rental through cable and satellite VOD. Paramount says it will be watching the stats closely.
HBO has tapped NIELSEN to rate its VOD titles using the Nielsen People Meter VOD Audience Measurement service, becoming the first network to do so. The deal will provide ratings and audience demographics for both HBO On Demand and Cinemax On Demand.
SCRIPPS has launched a new web presence at FrontDoor.com. The site is for real estate enthusiasts and house-hunters. It will feature home listings, tips on purchasing property and (of course) extensive video from HGTV and DIY networks. FrontDoor will be heavily promoted on Scripps properties and through search marketing.
MTV NETWORKS will distribute video clips from its top properties on AOL Video. Short form videos from CMT, Logo, MTV2 and more will start appearing on AOL this week. Mika Salmi, president of MTVN global digital media, said a presence on AOL Video will increase engagement with MTVN brands and drive viewers back to company channels.