Google, MTV ink ad-backed video deal

From ZDnet:

Viacom's MTV Networks has agreed to distribute clips from its cable networks over Google's advertising network, in a test of what could become a new economic model for Web-based video delivery, the companies said Sunday.

The project, a year in the making, marks the first time Google will distribute ad-supported videos across its AdSense network from a major programming provider. The ad-supported video distribution project will begin testing later in August.

Shows including Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants" and MTV's "Laguna Beach" would be offered to Web sites who are in Google's AdSense network, supported by advertising. Web site owners can embed an MTV-branded video box directly on their Web sites, which will feature ads sold by MTV's sales force.