Joost has now opened the beta up to friends in the early beta test.  Basically, those who are beta testers can now send as many invites as they want to "friends".  So far I have invited 46 new Joosters.
Joost is a video service that allows you to watch TV shows--mostly older shows that Joost could get the rights to show.
It requires a broadband connection to view content and features "widgets" that allow for live chat while watching a show, clocks, and other potential experience wideners.  The widget part of the system is open to allow third parties to extend the function of the viewing experience.
I have some thoughts on the service.  The video can be a bit stuttery even on a good broadband connection.  I personally have not had any meaningful chats--I'm not sure what added value it offers--in the chat space provided.  The "remote" appears whenever you move your mouse on the desktop obscuring the video.  It would be nice if there was a video size between the small and full screen versions--with the remote not sitting on top of the action.
An interesting potential use for the service could be a private channel that video based grants programs, like WESTAF's TourWest could offer panelists for preview of artistic samples.
I think that test driving the service is well worth the effort.  If you'd like an invite, drop me a comment.  I'd be happy to hook you up.  Mac users must use Intel based Macs.
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