Independent launches new video service

The Independent has launched an enhanced UK video news offering following an innovative distribution deal with the Press Association and Octopus Media Technology.

Press Association video journalists will be supplying over 100 voiced packages a week to the website covering news, sport and entertainment. Each package will be around 90 seconds in length and cover a single story with voice over where appropriate. In addition, a further 100 short 20 seconds clips on single stories will be provided for use alongside text and pictures as part of the digital storytelling process.

The solution from video specialists Octopus Media Technology allows the Independent to integrate the high quality video easily into their website with improved quality, functionality and user experience.

Andrew Eborn, Octopus Media Technology founder and president said: “Our system enables the storage, management and delivery of video to any digital device, without the need for any additional software or hardware. This not only enables news providers like The Independent to stay ahead of the digital revolution but opens new revenue streams.”

Tony Watson, Press Association Managing Director said: “Following the recent launch of our video wire service, the Press Association is now providing video coverage of all the day’s major stories. We are working closely with customers to supply this content in a format that meets the individual requirements of their business.

“For the Independent, this means partnering with a video technology specialist for distribution and delivery to provide users with the highest quality experience of our content.

Bill Swanson, The Independent Managing Director - Digital said: “Working with PA and Octopus ensures that we have a platform that can deliver video to our userbase that is both flexible and integrated. The range of content also enables us to position the player in more areas of the site, it is the next step in our evolution as we continue to try and enhance the user experience and relevancy of our site.”

Jimmy Leach, editorial director for digital at The Independent, added: “PA’s expertise is providing quality news video quickly and professionally will give our video service some real immediacy and depth, while Octopus’s player is a simple, but rather elegant way for users to interact”.