YouTube To Test Blocking System

YouTube is to begin testing a new system that will block the uploading of unauthorized copyright material, according to the company.

YouTube is set to start testing a new system that will be able to block the uploading of unauthorized copyright material to the video-sharing site.   The first tests will involve Disney and Time Warner, but will be expanded quickly.   The site, which is now owned by Google, has been the subject of lawsuits, most notably from Viacom, for allowing copyrighted material to be available.   Chris Maxcey, YouTube’s vice president for business development, explained the testing system:   “We hope to have a better understanding of how this is going to work, not just from a technology standpoint, but also from a policy standpoint. The goal is to have something more openly available for content owners broadly later this year.”   YouTube executives have expressed optimism that the new system could help the company reach agreements with other companies over copyright issues.