Hollywood-based operator11 has opened its new Internet-based television studio for alpha testing. The CEO of this new startup is Josh Harris, founder of Internet TV broadcaster Pseudo.com. While the site is still in its alpha testing stage, it demonstrates some interesting technology.
How it Works
Sign-up on the site is a snap. After creating your profile, you can dive right in and create your first episode. As “director” you can combine your live webcam feed with feeds of your friends. Operator11 has listings of live shows, and you can add your email to be reminded when a user is broadcasting a new episode.
When setting up your profile, the site allows you to posts answers to questions like “Who are you?” and “What are your favorite T.V. shows?” in video format for other users to view. The site seems to be combining the video blogging features of YouTube, the live feed streaming of sites like Ustream, and some of its own interesting new features. Supposedly, the site is going to employ social features that the creator has dubbed “massive multiplayer social networking.” The designers hope to classify users into levels to allow the directors of shows to have more powers (more time per show, multiple shows, more privileges etc.).
Opinion
Operator11 is entering a crowded field, with competition from sites like Mogulus, PalTalk, and Ustream.TV. This could be a great tool for some bloggers who want to connect to their audiences through video. I will be checking back in on this site as it builds a user base since — being in its early stages, only one show was broadcasting live today.
