London, UK – May 29, 2009
Making history yet again, Microsoft today announced their partnership with Sky, one that will allow gamers to watch live, premium quality television straight from their console. Coming this autumn to the UK and Ireland first, the service will allow premium channels and programs to be viewed live or on-demand through the 360, with specific content details set to be discussed closer to the service’s launch. Generally known to be available are high-quality movie, documentary, sports, music/arts, and children’s entertainment channels, viewable through several options. The Sky TV program will be available in several packages, put programs can also be viewed on a pay-per-view basis (current Sky TV members will not have to pay extra.)
Stephen Nuttall, Director of Sky’s Commercial Group comments:” Our partnership with Xbox is a further example of our commitment to put choice and control in the hands of customers. Xbox owners now have a range of ways to access Sky content and can pick and choose the platform and packages that are right for them. We are extremely excited about the opportunity of reaching Xbox owners who are looking to experience Sky for the first time, as well as giving our existing customers yet another way to experience the content they love.”
Echoing this, Neil Thompson, Head of Xbox UK and Ireland, adds: “Our customers have told us that they want the opportunity to use their consoles as a way to access TV and once again Xbox has pulled off an entertainment first with amazing content and rich interactive experience. The combination of Sky’s leadership in content creation and aggregation and our own in creating a constantly evolving new generation of rich 360 entertainment experiences means we are one step closer to our goal of offering Xbox owners the best entertainment experiences out there, whether it’s movies, music, games, interactive experiences or high quality TV.”