(7 December 2006 10:00 pm)

MUMBAI: UK pay TV service provider BSkyB and the world's most valuable media firm Google have announced plans to work together in bringing ground-breaking web-based services
to Sky's community of broadband internet customers.

The set of multi-year agreements sees two of innovators in technology and entertainment join forces to create a customised experience for Sky Broadband customers.

Sky will be Google's first partner globally to deploy Google's suite of search, advertising, communications and video services, all of which will be tailored and branded for Sky's fast-growing broadband platform. Sky aims to ensure that
its broadband customers enjoy the best possible online user experience with customised access to the full benefits of Google's evolving suite of innovative products for PC, TV and mobile.

Sky and Google will collaborate in three areas:

Video: Sky will launch a multi-platform User Generated Video (UGV) portal powered by the first global deployment of Google's syndicated video content tools. The site will allow users to edit, upload and share their own video content, including the facility to upload and download from a mobile phone. The UGV portal will form part of a content-rich experience for Sky Broadband customers that will enhance the appeal of Sky's broadband services, build community and promote Sky content to online audiences.

Communications: Sky Broadband customers will enjoy access to an online communications platform. This will include a fully customised version of Google's email product, 'Google Mail', which will use the popular '@sky.com' email address. Powered by Google with a user interface and functionality customised to Sky's unique specifications, the platform will also offer access to key communications applications that attract and deepen relationships with internet users, such as contacts, calendar and instant messaging.

In addition, Sky will explore opportunities to provide further services such as Google's VoIP (voice over internet protocol) telephony services, enhanced storage and future product developments.

Search and advertising Google will provide its search tools and targetted search advertising across Sky's portfolio of online sites. The two companies will also explore future forms of web, TV and mobile advertising. Revenue generated by click-throughs on sponsored links will be shared between Sky and Google, increasing Sky's exposure to the fastest growing segment of the UK's advertising market.

Sky CEO James Murdoch said, "These agreements will bring Sky customers a valuable set of services from the world's leading search company, including cutting edge tools for video sharing and communications. Google has pioneered many of the web's most loved and used features, so I'm delighted that Sky Broadband customers will be the very first
online community to enjoy such unrivalled range and quality as well as a commitment to further innovation.

In a short time, Sky says that it has emerged as an effective challenger by offering high-quality broadband that offers greater value than traditional cable and telcos. Sky says that it is on track to build a large and successful broadband business and is increasingly well positioned to participate in the rapid growth of online search and advertising.'

Google chairman and CEO Eric Schmidt said, "Google is committed to giving people the power to explore, create and communicate. This alliance with Sky brings together two of the most innovative media and technology companies for the benefit of users. We will be delivering exciting new services for Sky Broadband customers all over the UK. We're delighted to team up with Sky in one of the world's most dynamic markets and we look forward to working together in the years to come."