Google is following in the footsteps of Yahoo in this case, which has a similar deal with BT in UK. BSkyB, the satellite giant in UK, has tied up with Google, under which Goog will build a Sky-branded search portal, mail and video services for Sky’s broadband customers (and not just that, will be open to any online users.
On Google side, it has some co-branded default homepage/portal deals with PC manufacturers like Dell, but this is its first foray with a media-brand. Financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, but the agreement will see the two companies sharing revenues generated by sponsored search links. The deal isn’t exclusive.
Meanwhile, Guardian makes too much out of this deal: “As well as providing an attractive carrot to existing Sky customers, and potential new ones, the deal marks a major move by Sky to develop online revenues.” Really? Calm down.
Also this, on the video sharing co-branded site, the broadcaster plans to attract 3 million users by 2010.