Google expanded its US AdSense programme with Video Units, an advertising format built around YouTube clips.
AdSense publishers could select the type of video shown on their sites. The system matched clips to page content, allowing a football site, for example, to restrict placements to related YouTube material.
A semi-transparent animated overlay appeared several seconds after a clip began. Video playback required a user click, while a banner above the player and text advertising below it carried the commercial message.
Advertisers paid by click or impression. Google said a European launch would depend on the programme’s performance in the United States.
