HP sponsors CNET video service

CNET Networks, the UK’s biggest online-only publisher, is launching a standalone online video service on Monday. It will run across four channels focusing on music, film, video games and technology.

Hewlett Packard has signed up to be the site’s exclusive sponsor for the first two months, owning all the advertising slots and running video pre-roll advertising.

Business development manager Geoff Inns says the service is unique in the UK as all content is original and exclusive to CNET. He says CNET TV is targeted at people passionate about music, film and games.

Programmes include Encoded, a weekly music show taking a digital look at new tracks, gigs and news from emerging and established bands; and Reel Report, a look at the contemporary film scene including interviews with director Anton Corbijn and Sienna Miller. Other programmes include: Start/Select, which looks at video games, and CNET TV: Live, which will showcase acoustic sets by bands filmed in CNET Networks’ studios and at the music festivals that took place over the summer.

Inns adds that although sites such as YouTube and Joost continue to be popular, there is an increasing demand for professional, original content.

The launch will be backed by cross-promotion on CNET’s websites, as well as a viral push and via online search.