Social media website Facebook has launched Watch, a new video platform that will allow users to access a variety of shows, including sports coverage.
Watch will be available on mobile, desktop and internet-connected television devices via the video tab, which was initially launched in the US last year. The service will also have a personalised Watchlist featuring the user's favourite programmes.
As mentioned by Facebook in its announcement, Watch will feature live events as well as show episodes, with North America’s Major League Baseball set to show one game per week on the website.
Partners that produce original video content exclusively for Facebook will earn 55 per cent of revenue generated by advertising breaks inserted into the content.
“We’ve learned from Facebook Live that people’s comments and reactions to a video are often as much a part of the experience as the video itself,” Facebook said. “So when you watch a show, you can see comments and connect with friends and other viewers while watching, or participate in a dedicated Facebook Group for the show.”