Xbox to offer cable TV

Streaming TV shows are next for Microsoft’s console, the Xbox 360. Microsoft recently announced that it will start live-streaming a wide variety of TV shows via its Xbox live service. This service will be available to more than 20 countries by the end of the year.

Microsoft has promised a “new era in television” by December, with cable companies like BBC, Comcast, HBO and Verizon FiOS included.

According to Microsoft interactive entertainment business president Don Mattrick, the announcement “is a major step toward realizing our vision to bring you all the entertainment you want. Combining the world’s leading TV and entertainment providers with the power of Kinect for Xbox 360 and the intelligence of Bing voice search will make TV and entertainment more personal, social and effortless.”

With Kinect gestures, users can enjoy a Minority Report-like interface where content is accessed via hand gestures and voice commands.

The Playstation Network has already made various inroads with its digital content offering, known as Video Unlimited. This service allows the user to view film and TV, stream music and socialise with their friends during the process.

In the US, streaming content via consoles is nothing new. Already, services like Netflix and Hulu run through the Xbox 360 and PS3, as well as the less-powerful Nintendo Wii.

Close to a year ago, AT&T launched its streaming media service on the Xbox 360, with vice president of the telecom, Jeff Weber saying, “Now we look forward to working with Microsoft to deliver even more innovative features that will allow U-verse customers to use voice and gesture controls to manage their TV experience.”

These services will, however, come at a premium price. Xbox Live Gold is already US$60 per year, and the addition of streaming video and film services will raise this cost substantially.