New Programming at YouTube

If you thought you had enough to watch on TV, well the amount of content out there on the computer (and eventually TV) may grow considerably in years to come.  YouTube announced plans to add 100 new channels to its service covering areas such as pop culture, music, sports, entertainment, and health.  Various stars and celebrities, such as Madonna, Ashton Kutcher, and Shaquille O'Neal, are expected to contribute content to this new venture.  YouTube has also committed to 25 hours of new programming each day.

Of course, the owner of YouTube, Google, Inc., is still working to bring this content to TV screens, creating an expanded venue for both YouTube and Google.  I expected much greater competition as the computer screen and TV screen became one.  If it works the way it should, we can have better programs in the years to come, as well as more flexibility concerning where we watch our favorite programs.

For a sample of the new YouTube channels, go here.  I like some of the ideas, many of which build on an already successful brand.  For instance, you will see Slate, The Nerdist, and TED.  And yet, I see some interesting new players, such as:

-- i am OTHER: Brought to you by Pharrell Williams. Championing individuality by giving a creative platform to a generation of game changers: Thinkers, Innovators, Outcasts.  

-- Noisey:  The Noisey Channel will feature performances and behind-the-scenes footage from bands all around the globe, hand-selected by people who know a lot more about music than you. 

-- Stan Lee's World of Heroes:  Every story has a hero; from the legendary Stan Lee come amazing tales about unique characters and extraordinary individuals.

I look forward to the new programming, though the current players on TV may have another impression.