A huge win for YouTube.
A Federal judge in New York is siding with the Google-owned broadcaster in its ongoing battle with entertainment giant Viacom. The $1 billion suit was filed by Viacom, accusing YouTube of broadcasting copyrighted content (from Viacom-owned properties like MTV and Comedy Central), and asking for big damages. But the judge ruled that YouTube had been removing illegal content from its site as required by law.
Google posted this statement on its blog: "This is an important victory not just for us, but also for the billions of people around the world who use the web to communicate and share experiences with each other. We’re excited about this decision and look forward to renewing our focus on supporting the incredible variety of ideas and expression that billions of people post and watch on YouTube every day around the world."
Viacom is calling the decision "fundamentally flawed," and says it will appeal the ruling.
Where do you stand on the Viacom/YouTube debate? Let Scott know on Twitter: @scottbudman
