Andre Yoskowitz
18 Dec 2010 19:37
Although unconfirmed, it appears that Google's under-the-radar film streaming service is about to get a large expansion, possibly as early as next month.
TC, citing reliable sources, says Google will add feature films to its rental/streaming catalog, meaning users will be able to rent and watch newer movies via YouTube.
Additionally, the search giant will put a massive ad campaign behind the service, putting some of its $33 billion in cash to work.
Google hired former Netflix exec Robert Kyncl during the summer and he is in charge of negotiating the studio deals.
The company is looking for "top tier films," and will create a deeper library over the course of the year.
Currently, YouTube has some "top tier" movies, but most are B-list, or much older films. For example, the 2010 hit "Kick-Ass" is available for rent for $.99, right now, but I would be surprised if anyone else had ever heard of the other 30 movies on the front page.