&sq=Facebook&lang=en&file=File:Toutofficiallogo.png) | |
| Type of business | Private |
|---|---|
Type of site | Social network service, microblogging |
| Available in | Multilingual |
| Dissolved | 2019 |
| Headquarters | , |
| Area served | Worldwide |
| Founder(s) | Michael Downing |
| Industry | Internet industry |
| Commercial | Yes |
| Registration | Required (to post, follow or be followed) |
| Launched | April 2010[1] |
| Current status | Inactive |
Tout was an online social networking service and microblogging service that enabled its users to send and view 15-second videos, known as "touts." The service's core technology was created at SRI International by Michael Downing based on two patents owned by that company.[1][2]
In April 2010, Tout spun off as its own company with SRI taking an equity stake.[2] Tout gained popularity in June 2011 when basketball player Shaquille O'Neal used the service to announce his retirement. By early 2012, Tout had received over 12 million visitors and 75 million Touts had been shared by users of the service.[3]
- ^ a b Malone, Michael (2011-12-05). "News Chiefs 'Tout' Benefits of Social Video". Broadcasting & Cable.
- ^ a b Lawler, Ryan (2011-03-23). "Bye-Bye 15 Minutes of Fame: Tout Gives You 11 Seconds". Gigaom. Retrieved 2012-06-24.
- ^ Ha, Anthony (2012-03-14). "Tout's Plans For Turning Video Status Updates Into A Business". TechCrunch. Retrieved 2012-06-24.