Television is no longer something that can only be watched on an actual TV set. It has now reached computer screens and mobile phones around the world. One of the most recent developments in the phenomena of web TV is Hulu. Hulu was created in the United States and offers free, legal online viewing of videos produced by News Corp, NBC Universal, and Disney. It was designed to cut down on piracy by providing free access to shows while offering companies additional advertising revenues.
Get ready, Hulu UK is coming soon!
Although previously available only in the United States, Hulu is getting ready to launch its services in the United Kingdom. The release date for this is expected sometime in September 2009 and the first videos will include 3,000 hours of American content as well as video from UK stations. Over time, more original British programming is expected to be added. This will come after long negotiations with UK partners. Thus far, it is reported that Hulu is seeking to work with Britain’s ITV and Channel 4. There have also been talks that the web-based video service would like to team with the BBC as well. However, the real hitch in the Hulu UK plan seems to be who will control advertising, which is the main source of profits from the service.
Hulu working hard to secure UK deals
Currently, Hulu seems to be working closely with the Digital Rights Group, which is funded by Ingenious Media, as its top choice for a UK rights clearing house. The Digital Rights Group seems intent on bringing Hulu to British computers and could be Hulu’s best ally in the move towards a September release. It is likely that the UK’s Hulu would offer shows the day after they air on live TV and permit free viewing rights for 30 days thereafter.
Some of the main UK shows Hulu seems to want to feature include Peep Show, Rude Tube, Underbelly, Queer As Folk and Green Wing. This would be in addition to the many American shows already featured on the site. Among these, the most popularly viewed are American Dad, Family Guy, Saturday Night Live, and The Office.
Are you ready for Hulu?
If the bid to bring Hulu to the UK is successful, there is no telling how far this internet phenomenon could spread. Some people have predicted that Hulu will soon try to push its video on demand services into other international markets, although no official remarks on this issue have been made by Hulu itself.
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