In an attempt to leverage the explosion of video content distribution via the web, Comcast has announced plans for Fancast.com . Comcast joins many other traditional media outlets and start-ups that together are making 2007 the year of Net Video. NBC and Fox have partnered for a similar service, and the long anticipated Joost is scheduled to launch in 2007 as well. Comcast brings some distinct advantages – namely its nation leading broadband subscriber base. In addition, control of its own network provides distinct advantage over Internet based services like YouTube. There is no shortage of analysis surrounding the impact of this new video distribution model on traditional pay TV services. The truth of the matter is no one really knows what the impact will be – it’s simply too early to draw firm conclusions. The bright side of these developments is that continued proliferation of video on the Internet will certainly drive additional broadband subscriptions – welcomed news to broadband service providers of any type.
Check out this Wall Street Journal article for more details.
