MUMBAI: Bet Networks, an entertainment channel belonging to dedicated African Americans and online TV service Brightcove, have announced a partnership to distribute ad-supported Internet video channels in the UK.

Through its partnership with Brightcove, Bet International will extend the distribution of its compelling content -- including entertainment, music and celebrity programming -- to online audiences in the UK via the new Internet video site, BETonBlast.co.uk.

BET will also take advantage of Brightcove‘s viral promotion features to enable consumers to share and embed BET Internet video content on websites, blogs and social networks in the UK. All Internet video channels will also offer online advertising opportunities sold by Viacom Brand Solutions in the UK.

Bet International senior VP, GM Michael D. Armstrong says, "We are excited to continue building the BET brand around the world, and with the launch of our beta broadband site in the UK, users can get an early taste of our forthcoming multiplatform offering that‘s set to debut later this year.

"We are also looking forward to working with Brightcove, whose technology allows us to tap into the power of Internet video, while maintaining control over the quality of the viewing experience and the revenue potential of our video content."

Brightcove chairman and CEO Jeremy Allaire says, "Bet is one of the most popular cable networks in the United States with a programming line-up that has strong worldwide appeal. We are thrilled to be working with BET and chosen as the Internet video platform for their expansion into Europe."

Bet International is dedicated to building a global distribution footprint to deliver BET content to consumers of Black culture around the world. With the Bet on Blast site in the UK, Bet International is taking another step in its strategy to expand the Bet brand in the global marketplace.

Bet International recently announced that it will launch its hit music countdown show 106 & Park in Japan, and will announce other expansion initiatives in Europe and Africa in the near future.