Microsoft set to launch broadband TV (IPTV) in the UK
TV over internet protocol (IPTV) or internet TV streaming services in UK will have another player within a week. Microsoft, the global software giant will launch its flash based MSN Video Player that will stream TV programmes to the UK broadband users, the Times UK reported today.
MSN Online Video Player
The beta version of MSN Video Player which will hit next week will be competing with other IPTV rivals like BBC iPlayer, ITV, Channel IV and the most recent Hulu broadband TV channel, Asheley Highfield, Microsoft’s UK Consumer and Online MD said.
“We now know that people are prepared to watch TV over IP (internet protocols) on their laptops; the next step is to see if it’s commercially viable,” he said.
Only available for UK broadband users, the new online video player will show 30 minutes programmes followed by short commercials. This is a contrasting feature with BBC iPlayer which is free of commercials as the UK’s top broadband TV service is funded by TV licence.
Asheley said all the advertising space for the service is already sold out. It shows how IPTV services are becoming hugely popular in the UK.
We do not know when will Microsoft launch the full version, however, it is likely that Silver technology, Microsoft’s own product will be used as the platform for the final version of MSN video player. Apple iPhone users may not get the new service as the question of using Apple’s Quick Time is ruled out in the backdrop of rivalry between Microsoft and Apple.
Initially, MSN Video Player will get content from the BBC and All3Media UK and stream 300 programmes from these archives, it was reported.
Ashley Highfield, who was also the former associate of BBC iPlayer said:
“What we are offering is something we believe to be complementary to the iPlayers of this world. This is a post catch-up service for programmes that no longer feature on the BBC iPlayer.”
This means the viewers of MSN Video player will watch only the 180 days old BBC programmes, as the BBC has already clarified in a statement. The likely programme list for the new channel includes Dead Ringers, The Hitch-Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, The League of Gentlemen, Hustle etc.
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