Google-owned video site YouTube has paved the way for the launch of live streaming, completing its first test of a platform that could go global if the results are positive.
The firm has trialed the platform over the past two days, offering four content partners the opportunity to stream live content as it looks to cash in on growing consumer appetite for on demand services.
Unlike previous one-off live broadcasts, YouTube sees its new platform as a “new chapter,” in its live streaming service.
“This new platform integrates live streaming directly into YouTube channels,” the firm said in a blog. “Based on the results of this initial test, we’ll evaluate rolling out the platform more broadly to our partners worldwide.”
Content from Howcast, Next New Networks, Rocketboom and Young Hollywood was included in the test.
Screen Digest’s Dan Cryan told the BBC YouTube is likely to position itself as an intermediary rather than set up as a broadcaster, delivering the audience to broadcaster’s content.
The most likely content for YouTube’s platform is sports and other events-based programming, Cryan said.
YouTube’s platform would be the first mainstream offering in a market that has so-far seen only small scale efforts from firms including Oik and Ustream, CNN reported.