With Netflix edging ever closer to a UK launch, Lovefilm, the Amazon-owned movie streaming and rental service, has announced a multi-year deal with Sony Pictures Television to allow it to distribute the studio's films and TV shows digitally. The move comes shortly after a similar agreement the company made with Warner Bros., and is a further commitment to increase its online content catalogue.

Now available on Xbox 360, alongside a PC client, the PlayStation 3, iPad, and connected devices from Samsung and Sony; Lovefilm will be offering titles such as The Social Network and Salt as part of a regular streaming-enabled subscription, while exclusive access to future releases such as Arthur Christmas will be available on a pay model.

"Our latest major content agreement means we'll be able to exclusively offer our members world-class content from Sony Pictures," said Simon Calver, chief executive of the Amazon arm.

"The number of recent high profile deals we have secured means we are able to keep expanding the service, offering our members high quality films and TV and the ability to watch as much as they want for one low monthly price."

Alongside the Sony Pictures Television and Warner Bros. deals, Lovefilm also has digital distribution agreements with Entertainment One, Studiocanal, Disney, Momentum and Lionsgate.

Do you think Lovefilm will be able to secure the market before Netflix arrives in 2012? Let us know in the comments below...