If you had bought or rented videos from Google you may have already received an email (see below) detailing the end of this service. So you bought some videos you thought were “keepers.” Guess again. As of August 15, 2007 the service ends and any video you bought or rented will NO LONGER PLAY. Google will provide you with a Google Checkout bonus that expires in 60 days in the amount you have spent on Google Video. DRM is not good for consumers, this shows just one reason why!

Google Video went through many changes trying to match YouTube (and in some ways iTunes) feature for feature. Now that YouTube is owned by Google and is partnered with Apple, so Google Video will fade away after only about 18 months since its initial launch.

Hello, As a valued Google user, we’re contacting you with some important information about the videos you’ve purchased or rented from Google Video. In an effort to improve all Google services, we will no longer offer the ability to buy or rent videos for download from Google Video, ending the DTO/DTR (download-to-own/rent) program. This change will be effective August 15, 2007. To fully account for the video purchases you made before July 18, 2007, we are providing you with a Google Checkout bonus for $2.00. Your bonus expires in 60 days, and you can use it at the stores listed here: http://www.google.com/checkout/signupwelcome.html. The minimum purchase amount must be equal to or greater than your bonus amount, before shipping and tax. After August 15, 2007, you will no longer be able to view your purchased or rented videos. If you have further questions or requests, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, The Google Video Team Google Inc. 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway Mountain View, CA 94043

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