The Google Video Viewer is reportedly a free web browser download that differs from most video streaming, which usually offer videos through stand-alone programs that open separately, such as Microsoft’s Windows Media Player, RealNetworks’ RealPlayer and Apple’s Quicktime. Google’s new service is said to open the video clips in a window inside a browser.
The viewer will cover eclectic topics such as breakdancing moves, gardening tips and the 2003 fall of Baghdad, claims one report, as well as material from major broadcasters.
Although the new service has been made available for free, it seems likely that Google will eventually set a fee for some of material in partnership with the content providers.
Users of the Google Video Viewer will be able to watch uploaded videos through Firefox or Internet Explorer software, but the service does not offer any content through other players. This, many observers believe, may limit Google’s competitive stance against existing media players from Microsoft and RealNetworks. The content is also thought to be limited.
However, the move will allow the company to compete with rival Yahoo! in the video search market. Yahoo! last month released its own video search product, which allows users to search news clips, music videos and movie trailers from various sources.
The news sent Google shares up by 2.3% to $304.10 on Nasdaq.
