Google began testing video ads with partner Viacom today.

The initial test, which will include up to 150 AdSense members selected by Google, will use channels of video content provided by MTV Networks and will last four weeks. The testers received instructions on how to implement a JavaScript object that embeds a Flash player in their Web sites. You can view a sample video advertisement here.

"Google is running an experiment with syndicated video supported by ads, to help publishers and video content owners better monetize their properties," read an e-mail to one AdSense partner. "Premium video owners provide Google with their content, Google matches the content with ads, and the site owner presents the combined product to their users."

Read more about the Adsense video ads tests at http://ibmwatch.eweek.com/blogs/google_watch/archive/2006/08/21/12602.aspx.