Matsushita, Google Partnership
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co.'s tie-up with Google Inc. group might trigger similar moves by other consumer electronics manufacturers says Nikkei Net.
"In the U.S., the Internet is rapidly emerging as the fourth channel for distributing entertainment content, following theaters, broadcast and DVD. The Google group's online video distribution services, including YouTube, host nearly 100 million viewings a day."
Matsushita's efforts to tap the growing popularity of online video may be an effort to boost sales of flat-panel TVs.
However, in Japan, Internet TVs faces an uphill battle for wide acceptance because content is limited.
Broadcasters and other rights holders are wary of copyrighted materials being posted without authorization on YouTube and other places in cyberspace.
Japanese electronics makers are working with the broadcast media to develop a way to ensure legitimate online distribution of copyrighted materials.
How often do you watch TV on the Internet, on Youtube?
