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Verizon's upcoming video service has a truly terrible name

Verizon's upcoming video service has a truly terrible name

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What does Go90 mean?

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Verizon seems to be nearing the launch of its long-in-the-works internet video service, and now Variety has given us the name: it'll be called Go90. That's some absolutely horrid, nonsensical branding, but the actual product doesn't sound nearly so bad — and apparently it'll be completely free (at least to start). Over the last several months, Verizon has quietly rounded up some important partners like Viacom, ESPN, CBS Sports, the NFL, and DreamWorks.

Variety reports that a website for the service was accidentally made public this week, revealing the name and also showcasing TV shows from AMC and Fox, two content providers that Verizon hasn't yet announced. GoPro and Vevo are also said to be contributing content to the service, and after Verizon's acquisition of AOL, that company's mobile video business will also play a key role. And yes, you can count on seeing ads across the service.

It'll be free to watch at launch

Go90 will offer mobile apps on Android and iOS and feature a mix of TV shows, music videos, and short-form clips. but the Verizon may choose to reserve some content exclusively for its own Verizon Wireless subscribers. Screenshots of the app also indicate that users will be able to quickly share small snippets of content with other Go90 users. Verizon CFO Fran Shammo recently said the company is aiming to launch by summer's end.

The foundation of Go90 came from Intel's failed internet TV project, OnCue, which was purchased by Verizon for $200 million and repurposed into the upcoming service. Unlike Sling TV and PlayStation Vue, Verizon isn't trying to replicate the TV experience, instead focusing on a blend of live and on-demand programming. On the Go90 website (now hidden), Verizon wrote, "We wanted to create a mobile-first, video-based app that can keep up with you and your on-the-go social life, One that features completely immersive live and on-demand content, no matter where you are or where you’re going. No cord required."