Vongo downloads make the jump to TVs

FROM CES: Microsoft deal uses Vista PCs or Xbox 360 as bridge

By Jennifer Netherby -- Video Business, 1/8/2007

JAN. 8 | LAS VEGAS—Starz has partnered with Microsoft in a deal that will bring its Internet movie service Vongo to TVs via PCs with the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system and the Xbox 360 game console, the companies announced Monday at CES.

Consumers will be able to download Vongo movies for viewing on any TV in their home connected to their Windows Vista Ultimate-based PC or Xbox 360 game console.

“The launch of Windows Vista provides us with a great opportunity to converge the benefits of the PC and the TV into the ultimate, connected digital entertainment experience,” said Blair Westlake, executive VP of the Microsoft media and entertainment group.

Starz has developed a new Vongo user interface designed for Windows Vista to allow users to easily search for movies on a TV screen. For consumers using their Xbox 360 as a connector between their PC and TV, the game console will automatically check for Vongo movie downloads to make viewing easy.

“According to our customer feedback, the No. 1 barrier to adoption is the fact that the movies can only play on the PC and not on their TV,” said Bob Greene, executive VP of advanced services for Starz. “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.”

Vongo offers subscribers unlimited access to more than 1,000 movies and the streaming Starz TV channel for $9.99 a month. The service also offers pay-per-view downloads.

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