Promoted Videos now in 16 countries

Promoted Videos continue to expand around the world, launching today in the Czech Republic, Ireland, Israel, Poland, Russia, and Sweden. Promoted Videos are now available in 16 countries, helping advertisers worldwide easily and effectively increase views of their videos on YouTube.

We've already seen some great campaigns since we launched in several countries in October:

• Australia: Mitsubishi Motors showcased the technology -- like bluetooth and iPod support -- integrated into the new Mitsubishi Outlander.
• Germany: Maskworld.com prepared for Halloween by promoting a video of 2008's Zombie Walk in Berlin.
• Japan: Pop star Ayuse Kozue promoted the release of her new album.
• U.K.: Foot Locker drove viewers to watch one of the more creative commercials we've seen about, well, shoes.

As advertisers around the world start investing in online video, we want to make sure that they have the ability -- no matter where they are -- to reach YouTube's audience with their content in a highly targeted way. We hope to roll out Promoted Videos to additional countries early next year.

Posted by Jay Akkad, Product Manager