YouTube has started to experiment with its own-brand live video-streaming technology.

Over two days the site is planning a trial in which four partners will get the chance to air live programmes.

YouTube has done one-off live events in the past, but the trial marks a test of underlying technology that will be used when the service is launched.

The live programming system is likely to be only open to media partners rather than individual web users.

YouTube partners Howcast, Rocketboom, Next New Networks, and Young Hollywood will take part in the test that runs from 13-14 September.

YouTube has given no official date for when development on its live-streaming technology will be finished or when the service will be offered to all its partners.

By moving into live streaming, YouTube will bump up against a whole series of new rivals including Ustream, Justin.tv and Livestream.

BDST: 1455 HRS, 14 September 2010