Xbox 360 offers digital downloads

REDMOND: A year after the launch of Xbox 360, Microsoft has announced the digital delivery of an initial line up of TV shows and movies to gamers in the US via Xbox Live, the online games and entertainment network.

Xbox 360 is the first gaming console to offer standard and high-definition TV shows and movies via digital distribution, Microsoft said in a statement on Wednesday.

Xbox Live Marketplace will provide gamers with easy access to hundreds of full-length TV shows for download from CBS, MTV Networks, Paramount Pictures, Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment.

More content will be rolled out through Xbox Live Marketplace every week.

“We’re exactly where we wanted to be this holiday with Xbox 360 retail stock availability,” said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of global marketing for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. “With an incredible library of games, more than 4 million gamers playing online with Xbox Live, and a growing catalog of high-definition gaming and entertainment content, why would anyone wait in line when you can get a superior experience from Xbox 360 right now?”

Since its launch on November 22 last year, Xbox 360 was the fastest console to reach five million sold. Six million Xbox 360 consoles had been sold by the end of September 2006. Microsoft expects to sell at least 10 million by holiday.

Expected to be available in 37 countries by holiday, Xbox 360 continues to retain record game and accessory attachment rates, according to NPD.

With more than four million members and an expected six million by June 2007, Xbox Live continues its leadership as the first and most comprehensive online games and entertainment network seamlessly integrated throughout the entire Xbox 360 experience, the statement said.

© CyberMedia News