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Starz Entertainment teams with Microsoft to bring its Vongo video download service to the TV
January 8, 2007
LAS VEGAS -- Starz Entertainment announced that Vongo, the Internet-based subscription video download service, will be available to play on the television as result of a new relationship with Microsoft for Windows Vista and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system.
Vongo has been selected as the premier "Movies" launch partner for Windows Vista. Under the terms of the agreement, consumers purchasing either Windows Vista Premium-based or Windows Vista Ultimate-based PCs will be able to easily download their favorite movies onto their PC or laptop using Vongo and then view the titles on any connected TV in the home. By developing a brand new Vongo user interface specifically for Windows Vista with Windows Media Center, Starz Entertainment is working in tandem with Microsoft to build upon the promise of last year's launch of the Vongo service. Vongo has now enhanced the digital entertainment experience making people's lives easier, more entertaining and better connected.
The new Windows Vista-enabled Vongo service will also take advantage of the Windows Media Center platform to allow users to stream movies and other content via Media Center extenders, such as Xbox 360 consoles, that are connected to the home network. The Xbox 360 will automatically check to see which Windows XP or Vista-based devices are registered on the network and ask the user whether they want to access content, such as their Vongo movies, from that PC. This is a simple and easy approach that solves past problems that required configuration and technical knowledge by the user. The launch of Windows Vista enables a new generation of users to enjoy the ultimate entertainment experience -- whether it's movies, music, games, or the latest TV shows.
"Over the past twelve months we have witnessed increasing interest in the movie download industry with a wave of new services, devices and alternative business models," said Bob Greene, executive vice president, advanced services for Starz Entertainment. However, according to our customer feedback, the number one barrier to adoption is the fact that the movies can only play on the PC and not on their TV. It has been easier, up to now, to use a DVD rather than a downloaded movie. By working with Microsoft on the development of Vongo for Windows Vista with Windows Media Center, we have added the last important piece for consumers: to have a truly integrated digital entertainment experience whether they are on the road or in the living room. Combining our superior subscription business model -- based upon exclusive movie rights -- with the ability to easily watch movies on a TV, Vongo is uniquely positioned in the marketplace."
Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT)
Starz Entertainment LLC
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