Azureus launches BitTorrent-based video service
updated 08:50 am EST, Mon December 4, 2006
Zudeo Video Service
Software developer Azureus today made its first entry into the commercial realm by introducing its new Zudeo service. A combination of software and a portal website, the service is meant to share long-form content such as games and videos at no cost to their creators. This is possible by using an updated version of the company's existing BitTorrent client: as all files are downloaded from an Internet-wide group of peers rather than a central server, even HD-quality videos can be downloaded free and quickly, Azureus says. The company is offering a mix of both commercial and user-submitted content and already includes official material from Tony Hawk. More content deals are expected in coming weeks.
The program itself is also dramatically expanded, according to the company. While the previous edition (known under the Azureus name) focused solely on downloads, the new Zudeo edition allows for browsing, content channels, and searches to help discover new media. A peer-to-peer streaming feature is promised for the near future. Files are currently free to download with the new service, though the company has not said whether or not it will charge for downloads in the future.



