/ 02.22.2010 12:00AM
Univision Launches Mobile and Web Novelas Channel
NEW YORK: Univision’s
interactive division is launching a new online and mobile channel later this
year, the Spanish-language broadcaster said today. The new Novelas y Series channel will debut on Univision.com, where another “webnovela,” “Vidas Cruzadas,” has done well. The series has generated more than
2.5 million vide streams in the United States and is one of the top two
most-watched titles at Univision.com,
the company said.
Univision last year announced it would start putting short- and long-form programming on YouTube.
The November announcement marked the first time the network decided to make its
content available to a Web site it didn’t own. The deal gave Univision’s
programming a higher Web profile, though its most popular fare--telenovalas produced
by Grupo Televisa--wasn’t included. The strident, Spanish-language soap operas
are among the most-viewed videos on YouTube.
Univision said Novelas y Series “will
include third-party content from Azecta America, RCN Television, and Dori Media
Group, as well as original programming from Univision Interactive Media. Programs
from the Univision Network’s top shows and special events will also be
featured. Users will be able to access the video on both online and mobile
platforms. As a hub for novela enthusiasts, the channel will also include the
latest novela news, celebrity gossip, behind-the-scenes footage and message
boards on a dedicated section co-branded with Dori Media Group.”
It did not specify mobile distribution platforms.
Univision announced last month it was building a new production facility in
Miami to supply the company’s three TV networks--Univision, TeleFutura and
Galavision, as well as the Web site.
More on Univision:
December 7, 2009: “Univision Establishes Production Operation”
November 17, 2009:“Univision Will Post
Full-Length Shows on YouTube”
June 24, 2009: “Univision Does
Multi-year Carriage Deal”
June 10, 2009: “Judge Hears
Univision-Televisa Skirmish”