YouTube takes videos to mobile phones

SAN FRANCISCO: Video-sharing website YouTube announced on Tuesday its foray into distributing video clips on mobile telephones through a tie-up with Verizon Wireless.   

YouTube said that from early December, a selection of its most popular videos would become available to US subscribers of Verizon Wireless's premium "V CAST" service.  

"With the largest community for online video entertainment, YouTube's move into the mobile space will enable a new audience of mobile users to enjoy entertaining videos virtually whenever and now wherever they want," it said.   

YouTube, which last month was bought by Google, has emerged as the web's hottest site for watching videos since its launch 18 months ago.   

The company indicated that mobile tie-ups were likely after the deal with Verizon, which is the largest US wireless operator in terms of revenues.   

"People want to be entertained in a way that fits their individual lifestyle," YouTube co-founder and chief technology officer Steve Chen said in a statement.  

"We will roll out exciting partnerships and features for the mobile user over the coming year," he said.