Vimeo today announced a big update to Vimeo On Demand (VOD), its direct distribution platform. The new features include rent and own pricing options, preorder availability via a new and improved checkout experience, a promo code generator, and more advanced statistics.
First and foremost, the new pricing options mean creators can offer viewers the ability to rent (stream) or buy (stream and download) content at separate prices. When VOD first launched back in March, only one price was allowed.
Next up, VOD sellers can now build buzz and drive advanced sales by making content available for preorder and creating promo codes. The new promo code generator lets filmmakers give certain viewers (the press, partners, friends, and so on) the option to access their work at no cost.
Last but not least, VOD has received more statistics and VOD figures are rolled into PRO member’s Advanced Stats section. Sellers now get more information about their works, including trailer plays, paid video plays, and additional revenue details.
“Vimeo On Demand is constantly evolving to give creators the power to sell their work on their own terms, while enabling viewers to discover and consume high-quality content in the best way possible,” Vimeo’s President, Dae Mellencamp, said in a statement. “The new features added today put more control in creators’ hands and give audiences more options to view amazing work.”
In short, Vimeo is increasingly positioning itself as the professional alternative to YouTube. While it’s incredibly difficult to compete with the likes of Google, the online video space is certainly large enough for more than just one player (pun intended).
See also – Vimeo announces content ratings: Videos will now be marked for All Audiences, Mature, or Not Yet Rated and Vimeo makes a play for the ‘Instagram for video’ crown with Looks, adding over 500 creative filters
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