Google Closes Video Download Division

Just like many other betas that Google has ran, Google Video is the latest beta program to get the ax. Subscribers that paid money to access videos to rent or own via this service received the following statement concerning the closure of the video service.

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

Now this money for credit deal seems like it would be upsetting for some people that might just prefer to get their cash back, and why Google won’t just “do the right thing” by their customer and refund in hard cold cash is beyond me. What if a customer doesn’t want to establish a Google checkout account? Is it just a ploy to get people to sign up for their checkout program?

To top it off, everything that was purchased or rented is no longer viewable to the person that paid. I’m not sure how that helps to establish “trust” with or good vibes with customers and ons has to wonder when Google starts to step on too many peoples toes to go unnoticed.

What are your thoughts on the withdrawal of this video service? Is it fair to the people that paid for something?

PC Mag

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