Simon Munk, Editor, MSN Xbox Lounge |  |
Sky Player on Xbox LIVE
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With the integration of premium live TV services, the Xbox 360 is taking a major leap from a gaming console to an all-encompassing entertainment hub.
For the first time ever a home console will stream premium live TV. Exciting right? But wait, that's probably the least revolutionary and exciting part of the news that Sky Player is Out Now on the Xbox LIVE online service.
Sky Player's service through Xbox LIVE means access to a host of live TV channels, on-demand programmes (available 24 hours a day) and pay-to-view content including sports, entertainment channels and big blockbuster movies.
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For existing Sky homes, the Xbox 360 means another place in the house to watch the great Sky TV entertainment line-up. And with added on-demand and pay-to-view extras, existing customers can grab more great Sky offerings as and when it suits them. But, for existing Sky viewers and for new subscribers alike, Sky Player on Xbox LIVE also means a truly interactive TV experience.
Using your Xbox LIVE Avatars, you can meet up with a group of friends to watch a Premier League football match or maybe a new movie on Sky. Dodgy penalty decision? Favourite bit of the movie coming up? You can chat about it over Xbox LIVE. One button flicks between a full screen TV and a diminished version that also shows your friends’ Xbox LIVE Avatars. Pressing buttons on your Xbox controller will make your Avatar perform gestures, such as leaping up and down when your team scores. Meanwhile, all of your friends wearing Xbox LIVE headsets can chat live as the action unfolds.
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Watching content as a group will be available from the launch - but that's just a taste of Sky Player interactivity on Xbox LIVE. In the future, the service could add interactive quiz shows and more.
The entire experience will be delivered typically seamlessly, with a menu system that fits perfectly with both the Xbox user interface and Sky's Electronic Programme Guide. What does this mean for the humble user? Using the Xbox 360 and Sky's famously easy-to-use menus, new Sky viewers will also be able to pick up, play and watch straight away. What’s more, the launch of Sky Player on Xbox LIVE means all that Sky content, straight to your living room, without even installing a dish!
Interactive, convenient and easy – Sky Player on Xbox LIVE is Out Now. Come back later for more great Sky content later.
