June 7th, 2007
Google launches YouTube's money machine
YouTube has updated their embedded video player to include new features that I think make a lot of sense for Google. The one I find most interesting gives users quick, uninterrupted access to related videos — this feature could be YouTube’s much needed money maker.
Why does a feature that doesn’t make YouTube any money right now grab my attention? Well, it’s all about trying to set up a convention — if they are successful, they are in a great position to make a lot of money.
For the next several months, people will get very used to using the related video tool that was just introduced. As soon as it becomes second nature for users to use the tool, we should start to see sponsored results mixed with these related videos. These advertisements stay out of the way and are only seen when users are actually looking for something — the reason Google’s other ads are so effective.
What do you think? Do you like the new player? Will sponsored videos start showing up once people start using the related videos feature often?
Garett Rogers 
is employed as a programmer for iQmetrix, which specializes in retail management software for the wireless industry.
See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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