WorldGate, Nielsen to Measure Internet/Cable TV Audiences

WorldGate Communications Inc. formed a strategic partnership with Nielsen Media Research to develop audience measurement systems for the WorldGate cable Internet TV service.

WorldGate CEO Hal Krisbergh made the announcement during his keynote address at the eTV World Conference in New York City. Nielsen Media will identify and measure the audience as they surf from television programming to the Internet using WorldGate’s Channel HyperLinking technology.

“The combination of Nielsen’s measurement expertise with the instant, one-to- one interactivity of the WorldGate service provides powerful tools not previously available to advertisers and programmers,” said Krisbergh.

“Nielsen’s role will be to manage the flow of measurement information between the advertisers and the service providers,” said David Harkness, senior vice president of planning and development at Nielsen Media Research. “This information will speed the introduction and use of the WorldGate service and give advertisers the knowledge they need to make smart implementation decisions.”

Krisbergh also announced a working relationship with The Weather Channel to develop a 24-hour Channel HyperLinked television network with instant linking from programming and advertising to related Web content, including instant weather forecasts, travel information and interactive advertising. Financial details of the arrangements for both deals were not disclosed.

WorldGate provides cable subscribers with an Internet/television experience using only a cable converter box.