Users of Google+ Hangouts, the live group video chat component of the fledgling social network, can now watch live streaming YouTube video as well as pre-recorded video. And the level of integration is set to grow from here on in.
Social Video Viewing
is a relatively new concept which is becoming standard. The idea is that rather than watching a video online by yourself, you watch it with others who can then discuss it or simply enjoy it with you. Think of it as a giant Web-shaped sofa in front of a TV.
Many video sites now integrate with Facebook and/or Twitter to allow people to carry on the conversation about what they’re watching simply and speedily. But YouTube has a new weapon in its arsenal. Google+ (Google Plus).
Google+ Hangouts Meets YouTube Live
Google+ is Google’s latest attempt at a social network, and it’s quietly building an impressive userbase. One aspect of Google+ is Hangouts, a free live group video chat for up to 10 people.
Google+ Hangouts have enjoyed YouTube integration from the start, with participants able to launch videos within a chat for all to watch. And that’s a pretty cool feature to have at your disposal for sharing funny clips or merely livening a dull conversation.
However, live streaming video is next on the agenda, with Google+ Hangouts participants now able to launch a live stream from YouTube. The process for doing so is currently a little convoluted, but new integration tools will soon make it much easier.
Conclusions
This is a genius move by Google because it will help both YouTube gain a foothold in the live streaming arena and Google+ gain a foothold in the social networking arena.
For Google+ to do a Facebook or Twitter the search giant needs to integrate its many services seamlessly into the social network, and YouTube is arguably its biggest draw of all.
[Via GigaOM]
