AOL broadcasts new channels

Internet service provider America Online (AOL) today debuted its new AOL channel lineup, the first phase of its launch of new AOL version 4.0 software.

The new channels will begin appearing next week and will continue through the end of October, according to the company.

The company said the new channel lineup includes a programming strategy that will increase content and easier access to information online.

The channel lineup streamlines the previous channel structure to create fewer and more straightforward categories, according to the company. Structured to be more relevant to members' lifestyles, new channels, such as Workplace, Families, and Lifestyles, will join existing channels, such as Entertainment, Local, Sports, News, and Kids Only.

The new lineup will have a more consistent look and feel, while each channel will maintain its own personality, AOL says.

When a channel is up, the right side of the screen will have content-?programming, slide shows, and graphics-?changing by day. The left side of the screen will have permanent featured content and channel-specific navigational elements.

The new AOL 4.0 package is due to roll out in the coming months, the company said.