Next Media trial interactive web TV

Hong Kong - Next Media has launched a microsite called Apple Action News featuring interactive online TV allowing journalists to interact with readers through webcam on topical issues.

Sam Hui, business director for Next Media Interactive, said the site aims to tap on the rising trend in online advertising in recent years.

He said Next will offer advertising opportunities such as online banner ads and TVC-style advertising and is chasing big spending clients that currently spend the bulk of their money on TV.

Apple action news, an extension of Apple Daily newspaper, feature three main sections- news, features and the Beijing Olympics.

In the features section, there are six channels ranging from finance, horseracing, soccer to entertainment where hosts could interact live with readers through their webcams.

The second phase will see more interaction tools introduced in the coming months and a marketing campaign will kick off in March to officially launch the site.

The company also has plans to launch the interactive web platform in Taiwan.