Microsoft tunes into more Xbox 360 TV channels

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 06 October 2011 11:30

Your IT - Entertainment

Need a break from Call of Duty? More Australian TV content will soon be available on Xbox 360.

Following the success of its Foxtel service, Microsoft is bringing a pair of local TV catch-up services to the Xbox 360.

ABC iView and SBS On Demand will be added to the Xbox Live roster "in coming months". Unlike the partial service available on certan Internet-connected TVs, the entire iView and SBS On Demand catalogues will be available on the Xbox 360.

Sally O'Donoghue, Manager, iview and Internet broadcasting at ABC TV said "The ABC has been at the forefront of developing services for new platforms to meet the changing expectations of Australian TV audiences. ABC iview is an exciting part of that story, having recorded exponential growth over the last three years on an increasing number of platforms and devices. We're excited to confirm that this will soon include Microsoft Xbox Live, subscription free."

Over at SBS, managing director Michael Ebeid said "We are excited to be partnering with Microsoft as Xbox Live embarks on this exciting new chapter. The partnership builds on SBS's commitment to making its content available across a range of platforms. Xbox Live subscribers will be able to access - on demand - many of SBS's programs and series including its flagship food and documentary titles."

Other new content providers that will be available to Xbox Live subscribers in Australia include YouTube, Crackle and The Daily Motion.