Website GQ TV
MEDIAWEEK 30.01.07
As 80% of UK internet users now have broadband, it's great to see another website providing content in multiple formats for its savvy, upmarket users.
Apart from refreshing the site and improving content, GQ TV provides users with the option to consume information in a format of their choice, even allowing them to download a video directly into iTunes.
GQ TV is similar to most other TV style applets in terms of technology.
However, the choice of content is fairly limited, predominantly focusing on movies and fashion.
It would be great to see the range expanded to include areas such as travel and music, which are featured elsewhere on the website.
Furthermore, GQ TV does not provide the user with the facility to leave comments or reviews - a feature popular on other websites.
Like most other sites, one generic problem GQ TV has is the annoying
wait for the video to start playing.
In order to commercialise, GQ has opted for pre-roll ads that play for up to 15 seconds before the chosen video loads.
I wouldn't be surprised if GQ readers get a little bored waiting for the ad, and subsequently the video, to buffer separately. Many other media placements are also available, including
sponsorship and standard formats.
The download link that imports files directly into a user's iTunes library is an excellent idea that I've yet to see elsewhere.
In essence, GQ TV is a great addition to an already content-rich site, but I feel it needs notching up a gear. Further content, covering different interests, and perhaps some user-generated reviews could firmly set this format at the heart of GQ.
Review by Greg Fortune account handler, Total Media Digital |
