According to a new report, Google is preparing to relaunch its live stream platform with a focus on live gaming events and sporting events. Google sort of tried this once before with their YouTube Live service when they attempted to purchase Twitch for $1 billion. That deal fell through amidst claims of “antitrust concerns.” Since then, Twitch has gone on to achieve success in the market, with the backing of Amazon, while YouTube Live became an “also ran.” Now, Google appears to be ready to give it another go based on reports that internal resources are being committed to the initiative.
One source claims that YouTube has already assembled a team of 50 engineers who have streaming industry expertise. Besides assembling in-house talent to lead the effort, YouTube will also have to look at acquiring content rights. They have had some success in this area, such as their broadcasts of the League of Legends Championship Series. However, that deal is not exclusive and many viewers turn to YouTube’s old acquisition target, Twitch, for coverage. YouTube has also run into a variety of international copyright issues that have thwarted some efforts.
If YouTube is successful with this new effort, one source thinks “there’ll be huge opportunities for established streamers and organizations” that YouTube can capitalize on, especially with the backing of Google. This push will also help YouTube get away from the foreign language newscasts, “obscure sports events,” and other minor streams that dominate the service now.
YouTube has not commented on the claims regarding the YouTube Live service, but many expect them to make some kind of official announcement at the E3 gaming expo coming up in mid-June.
source: The Daily Dot
via: Android Central
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