Google Fends Off Viacom Horns
Well, you can chalk up another win for the Mountain View people.
And, a big one too.
In a recent decision by a federal judge, it was decided Google is not in violation of the 1998 Digital Millennium Copyright Act law…when over 100,000 videos were uploaded to it’s video site, YouTube.
Viacom was seeking $1 billion in the infringement lawsuit.
U.S District Judge Louis Stanton threw out the suit as it was making its way to trial, stating Google removed the infringing material quickly enough to not violate the act.
Viacom decided to sue after content was taken from their entertainment channels MTV and Comedy Central and uploaded to YouTube without authorization.
Viacom must really like their content.
Was it worth $1 billion? Or is this the best way to make a point against Google’s Don’t Be Evil Claims. (Even though I think they should change it to…minimize evil while doing more good.)
Here is what the Official Google blog had to say:
This is an important victory not just for us, but also for the billions of people around the world who use the web to communicate and share experiences with each other. We’re excited about this decision and look forward to renewing our focus on supporting the incredible variety of ideas and expression that billions of people post and watch on YouTube every day around the world.
I couldn’t agree more.
While this lawsuit with Google has gained the most exposure…this whole mantra of “take down our material, or we’ll sue” is nothing new – just ask Hulu.
However, there is word Viacom might be starting to place nice. I’ll be waiting patiently. And, hopefully you’ll be the first to hear about it.
On that note – I would like to offer some advice to Viacom: Instead of trying to play this game of “controlling your brand” be open to the growth of shared content. Work out a deal content providers like Google and Hulu…split the revenue and move on with life.
In my humble opinion, this will only help your brand. Exposure has never hurt anyone. So what if someone wants to sneak a 3-minute peak at a Daily Sow clip? Cable ratings are suffering anyway.
You should be glad people WANT to upload your shows. Just ask Campbell Brown and Anderson Cooper.
For what it’s worth: try not to get stuck in 1985.
As always, I value your feedback…should you have any comments, questions or think this article was totally irrelevant…just drop me a line.
Very informative and interesting topic, thanks for sharing, hope to read more great article.
Robert
Hey Robert,
Thanks for the kind words – look forward to seeing you around Meta Fever.
Joel