Travel Channel to Focus on User-Gen Plays

Now that Cox Communications’ acquisition of the Travel Channel has been finalized, the niche network has begun gathering its hiking gear and poring over topographical maps, plotting an excursion that will lead it and its new owner beyond the well-trodden confines of the linear TV space. On May 14, Discovery Communications ceded control over Travel Channel, paying out $1.28 billion in cash for Cox’s 25 percent stake in DCI, while handing over the network’s passport and its related digital media assets. >>Full Story

Thoughts// A brief article that shows the continued interest in travel-related, user-generated content. While the offering sounds like it is still in the development stages, the idea of taking user-generated content to a semi-professional level via a 'video academy' is a new angle. However, simliar to the bud.tv article, how much clout does a brand such as Travel Channel have on UGC? And how much promotional value can the TV network create for such a venture?

Park It: Disney Travel Channel Launches

In an effort to perk up two business categories--travel and theme parks--Walt Disney is launching a video-on-demand channel, Disney Travel. Two cable systems will be part of the initial launch, Cablevision Systems and Time Warner Cable, which will reach more than 9 million viewers. The channel will include reality, special-event content and concerts, all focusing on Disney parks worldwide. >>Full Story

Thoughts// Not directly related to AOT, but with the convergence of online and TV in the not too distance future, an interesting article and concept.

45% of Europeans watch TV online

Almost half of European broadband users are using their computers to watch television online, a survey claims. The ability to "take control" of their viewing was the motivation for many users said Motorola, which interviewed 2,500 people including the UK.

Thoughts// While not directly related to AOT (unless you are a fan of BBC shows such as the EastEnders), this new study from Motorola does indicate that a large number of European consumers not only have access to the technology (broadband internet) to watch video online, but appear to be rapid adopters as well. An interesting note to keep in mind as AOT
ventures deeper into the European marketplace.