Google Gets Its Home-Video Upload Site Up And Going

Google has started a video upload program last week - well sort of. They're asking the general public to send in or upload their videos to them as part of their video program. Google have been indexing televised content for a while now. So, providing it is not pornographic, Google is now soliciting content from just about anybody - you just won't be able to view it right away - that's all.

According to the Google Video, they are now accepting video submissions and will review them prior to their next phase, which will allow viewing of contributed videos. The company has also said, it welcomes any type of contribution, as long as the subscribers own the rights, can submit it electronically, and ensure that the material is not obscene or offensive.

Google also says that those people submitting videos will be able to charge viewers a price for watching. All submissions, however, need to allow users to preview the material for free. Google also states that anyone submitting their "masterpieces" will retain all the copyrights.

Just what exactly is Google Video?

Currently, Google Video lets you search a growing archive of televised content - everything from sports events to dinosaur documentaries to news programs. In addition to televised content, they are now accepting video from anyone who wants to upload content to them. Uploaded content will not be immediately available to users searching Google Video, as this is just the submission stage of the program. But (if you'll pardon the pun) stay tuned.

For those interested in these types of facilities, Google also has yet another video search service, video.google.com that allows users to search the Web for TV programs that are already online.

Do I need any special software to participate?

You will need the small upload software tool that lets you submit videos electronically to Google Video. Simply sign up for an account and use the upload tool to send your videos to Google. Remember, however the software is still in test mode, so you may not see your videos live on Google Video immediately.

To sign up for the Google Video program, firstly you will need to register. Then, download the Video Uploader tool, and follow the instructions for uploading your content to Google Video. Make sure you read and agree to the Google Video Upload Program Terms and Conditions.

To make sure that your video is submitted properly, try to use Google's preferred file formats and approval process. Otherwise Videos may be delayed or not go live at all, if they're not approved.

So when exactly will users be able to see and play my videos online?

During Google's next development phase, Internet users will then be able to search, preview, purchase, or play your video - depending on your preferences. In order to promote your video, all videos on Google Video will allow users to see a quick preview.

If you assign a price to your video or submit a video in file format that is not of Google's choice, it may take a bit longer for your video to be included on Google Video or come up in searches.

You can keep up to date on the status of the program by visiting the Google Video Upload page at any time. From this page, you can sign in to your account to keep track of your video status.

Can I charge a fee for people playing my video?

Once it's uploaded, you have the choice of letting viewers play it for free, or charging for it. Google doesn't seem to say exactly how the transaction for viewing the videos will be provided. However their site does indicate, "If you do charge a price, Google will take a small revenue share to cover some of our costs."

You can name any price for your video. This can be done from the Add/Edit Video Information page. The price you choose completely depends on you and your distribution goals.

Google suggests that you choose a fair price that users will pay to view your video content. Because you can change the price at any time, it would probably be best to experiment and see what price brings you the most success. Of course you may get a far wider distribution than those who choose to charge a price, if you choose not to charge.

Can I add information to my video to help people find it? Does my video need captions or a transcript?

Typically, the more information you provide, the easier your video can be searched and found. While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to add captions or a transcript to your video. Each time you submit a video, you will be asked to add information about your video with as much related information as you can provide.

Google has a tips page for submitting transcripts for adding a transcripts and additional video information. You will simply need to visit your Video Status page, and click "Add" beneath the Transcript column.

What are the file formats Google will accept?

Google accepts video in a wide range of popular formats. The fastest way to get your videos into Google Video is to submit each file in MPEG4 format with MP3 audio or MPEG2 with MP3.

Google states that while they do support other digital formats such as QuickTime, Windows Media, and RealVideo, submitting your files in these formats may result in some delays in getting them mounted on Google Video. In some cases, they may not be able to add your video at all.

Can I remove my videos after I upload them?

Yes. If that "home wrecker" that you had decided to spend the rest of your life with (after 3 months of contented bliss) - and so decided to make and submit a special video to prove your undying love - has left you for their therapist. Best you contact the support team at Google and have them remove your content from the program.

Arthur Hissey
Computer Research & Technology
www.crt.net.au