Web TV now closer with CNN

CNN is further embracing the internet as it gears up to premiere two new web-exclusive video series.

The series are in collaboration with Vice's VBS.TV, overseen by creative director and renowned film director Spike Jonze, and Sub Pop Records, said KC Estenson, Senior Vice-President and General Manager of CNN.com.

It is the next step in developing the news corporation's website into a multi-format site. The two series, VBS.TV on CNN.com and Indie Asia: On Tour with Handsome Furs will also be available via the CNN app for iPhone and iPod Touch.

Estenson said: "When we unveiled the new CNN.com, we wanted to showcase [our] in-depth reporting, as well as introduce a new range of voices through strategic partnerships. Indie Asia will provide users with a unique cultural travel log of Asia, while the original storytelling from VBS.TV promises to bring the audience smart, alternative documentary-style videos."

VBS.TV began its weekly run last night with Vice Guide to Liberia, following vice founder Shane Smith's travels through the war-torn country.

"Most people who hear about this partnership will think [it's] an odd pair. And you'd be right. But as our company began to evolve and cover stories around the globe, CNN was our first and only choice for a partner. We couldn't be more excited with a partner unless it was Jimi Hendrix joining our rock and roll band," said Smith.

Indie Asia, meanwhile, begins tonight in the travel section following the Handsome Furs – made up of the duo husband and wife Dan Boeckner and Alexei Perry Cox – documenting their travels during their first tour across Asia with two Flip cams. "As a compact, nimble and experience-hungry two-piece, there are few touring bands more adventurous than Handsome Furs. It's a real honour to be associated with such an amazing rock band, one so bent on bringing their music to such far-flung parts of the world," said Jonathan Poneman, Sub Pop founder and CEO.

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