The overwhelming volume of online news can appear generic, and often omits the stories that are closest to home. So a company called Zatso is offering viewers a chance to filter local news reports with regard to their interests and then watch a half-hour daily newscast that is customized to their needs and interests. TV broadcasters have always been forced to deliver the same newscast to everyone. By creating 'personal news' we will close that gap. Additionally, Zatso will offer coverage from Reuters and the Weather Channel among other sources.
Users log onto the site, answer some demographic questions and state certain preferences.
Zatso then selects the appropriate stories, writes custom transitions and sidebars, adds the advertising and places it online for the user to view at any time. While some stories will remain constant throughout the day, others are upgraded continuously. The site will also provide added value for expatriates. A former New Yorker living in Seattle will be alerted to any newsworthy accounts in the old neighborhood. This is a better option than watching a local news station from a satellite, as you can filter out irrelevant information like traffic reports and commercials.