Tech Shout!

Hulu has announced the beta launch of its online video service which is available at Hulu.com. Hulu content includes full-length current and archived television programming as well as clips and an initial selection of feature films.

Viewers will be offered a vast selection of streaming on demand, premium programming on a free, ad-supported basis.

Moreover, Hulu has also announced that it has signed licensing deals with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Sony Pictures Television. This marks a major milestone in its mission to bring consumers the most comprehensive selection of premium video content online.

A collection of over 40 TV shows from Sony will be made available to Hulu users, while full-length television shows and feature films from MGM will also be available through this service.

And, that is not all, because Hulu will also be offering content from Fox and NBC, over 15 US cable networks and four of the largest studios namely Fox, MGM, Sony and Universal.

According to Jason Kilar, chief executive officer of Hulu, “We’re excited to bring a wide selection of popular content to fans, on-demand and free – from full episodes and clips of hit shows like Heroes, House, The Office, and The Simpsons, to feature films like The Blues Brothers and Sideways. The launch with our distribution partners as well as our beta is an important first step in delivering a service that lets people enjoy their favorites, anytime, anywhere.”

Jeff Zucker, president and chief executive officer, NBC Universal says, “NBC Universal is excited to give consumers the flexibility to enjoy our most popular shows online when, where and how they want. “Hulu’s clean and crisp destination site, broad distribution network, and embeddable video player make for a powerful combination and will provide substantial reach to consumers online.”

Hulu’s vast network of distribution partner web sites include AOL, Comcast’s Fancast.com, MSN, MySpace and Yahoo! here, users will be able to enjoy an extensive library of premium long-form and clip content.