Google trials ad-supported videos

Sponsored videos are shown on a new Google Video Free Today page

Google is testing ad-supported content on its Google Video service allowing content that previously required payment to be watched for free, providing the viewer is happy to watch an advert. 

Adverts currently play after the video has finished, and the page hosting the video features a banner ad promoting the company sponsoring the content.

Google added paid content to its video hosting service in January. The content owner controls the price that is charged, and Google takes a cut from every video sold.

Sponsored videos are shown on a new Google Video Free Today page. Content ranges from episodes of Felix the Cat to wrestling bouts. The videos usually sell from $0.30 to $15. 

Among companies currently sponsoring videos on the service are HP, online DVD rental firm Netflix and Burger King.