Television viewers have their "must-see TV" and now online users have their streaming video equivalent. AOL Television Monday launched the "TV Top 5," a daily showcase featuring the five best
television moments of the previous day.
The new video feature is just the latest example of online media adapting television conventions. And just to prove it, the new video feature is being
sponsored by Philips Electronics, a company best known for its TV consumer products.
One big difference between AOL's top five and the TV medium's is how they will be determined. Unlike TV
rankings based on Nielsen audience ratings, AOL is drawing its rankings based on a combination of member response, data measurement compiled by TiVo and AOL's editorial staff. Ratings are not be one
of the criteria because, says spokesperson Jennifer Rankin, because "the service is so real-time we won't be able to use ratings to compile the list."
But the new feature is designed to elicit far
more interactivity from users than just simple preferences. Members will also be able to rate each TV moment on a scale of one to five and then compare their own ratings with user averages.
The TV
Top 5 will have another television connection to help promote its launch. The service is being kicked off with a sweepstakes giveaway of 25 TiVo digital video recorders, as well as product lifetime
subscriptions to TiVo.
In addition to its brand name appearing on each clip, exclusive sponsor Philips will have banner ads at the top of the "TV's Top 5" page.