Skype founders unveil internet TV service

The co-founders of internet telephone service Skype Tuesday unveiled their new project, which they hope will transform the broadcasting industry. Niklas Zennstrom and Janus Friis, who sold Skype for USD 2.6bn (EUR 2bn)) to eBay in 2005, have been developing the new service, to deliver high-quality live television over the internet. Previously codenamed the Venice Project, the new service called Joost will evolve from its beta testing phase to a full launch within six months. Chief executive Fredrik de Wahl said Joost would combine the best features of broadcast television - a near-DVD quality and full-screen picture - with the strengths of the internet, such as the ability to create personalised channels, chat to like-minded viewers and reschedule programmes on the move. Initially, Joost will concentrate on licensed shows from content partners rather than user-generated content and unofficial uploads. Most of its revenues will come from advertising, with viewers forced to watch targeted spots. Joost users will be able to watch established channels or choose something from a large content library, using special search and filtering software, reports Media Guardian.

Joost are looking for beta-testers. Sign up here 

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