Microsoft to challenge Apple with Xbox Live Video service

Apple recently announced their plans to launch a device named iTV which would enable users to broadcast their iTunes purchased content from a Mac to a television set.

Microsoft has now launched a similar service named Xbox Live Video. This would be available starting November 22 and users of Microsoft’s Xbox Live video game service will be able to download movies and TV shows from the net to view them on their television sets.

The company has teamed up with Hollywood studios to sell shows and make available movies and other content on rent. Currently the service allows the gamers to download movie trailers and game demos.

Microsoft has already signed on deals with CBS, Warner Bros Home Entertainment, MTV networks and Paramount Pictures for this service. They aim to offer 1,000 hours of programming content by the end of the year.

Movies won’t be available for sale though the users would be allowed to buy TV shows.