Microsoft launch TV and movie download service via Xbox 360

High definition content straight to your tv

23 November 2006 11:04 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Microsoft has launched its TV and Movie download service in the US allowing Xbox 360 owners to view standard and High-definition TV shows and movies without leaving the house.

As announced earlier this month, Xbox Live Marketplace will now provide gamers with easy access to hundreds of full-length TV shows for download to own and movies for download to rent from CBS, MTV Networks, Paramount Pictures, Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. (TBS, Inc.), Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Warner Bros.

TV shows include the CSI stable, Star Trek and South Park, while movies include more Star Trek, Harrison Ford classic Patriot Games, and Stanley Kubrick's The Shinning. Water fans will be able to enjoy both the Perfect Storm and Poseidon.

Using the Family Settings feature, parents and individuals can choose the video content that can be played on their family’s Xbox 360.

Microsoft has said pricing will vary depending on content however that High-definition TV shows will be 240 Microsoft Points per episode, and standard-definition TV shows will be 160 Microsoft Points per episode.

New release movies in high definition will be 480 Microsoft Points, and standard-definition new release movies will be 320 Microsoft Points each.

Classic feature films in high definition will be 360 Microsoft Points, and standard definition will be 240 Microsoft Points. After purchasing a high-definition TV show or movie, gamers can download the standard-definition version at no additional charge.

The Points which can be purchased via Xbox Live cost $20 for 1600 Microsoft Points card or $12.50 for 1000 Microsoft Points making a High Definition move around $6 (£3).

Microsoft has not announced whether or not the service will be coming to the UK.

Full tags

Home Cinema, Xbox 360, Video downloads, Microsoft, Gaming