(cc) by philcampbell/flickr

Bebo has taken the decision to pull out of its role as a commissioner of online TV content, stating that it no longer wants to risk financially investing in programming. It seems to me a strange decision, given that its original dramas such as Kate Modern and Sofia's Diary have been real differentiators for it from other social networks. Sofia's Diary even went on to get a TV slot on Five, redefining the stakes for web TV in the UK.

According to NMA, Bebo Originals will continue to host shows that have been fully funded by advertisers - though I can't really see the selling point. Come to us with a show with guaranteed backing, and we'll deign to host it on our network? Why wouldn't you just go straight to YouTube, where you're guaranteed higher views?

We'll see how it plays out, and Bebo still have two new series in the pipeline, apparently. Given that one might imagine Bebo to see themselves as one of the future networks, perhaps this is simply a sign of the times, and will thaw once the economy is looking a little better.