Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2010/11/30/microsoft_tv_virtual_cable_operator/

Microsoft reaches for remote control in crowded US TV market

Wake up, little snoozy. Smell the smelling salts

By Kelly Fiveash

Posted in Legal, 30th November 2010 14:15 GMT

Microsoft is readying itself for a battle in the crowded TV space and reportedly plans to bring a subscription-based television service to its Xbox gaming console.

According to Reuters, which cites sources familiar with the matter, the software giant wants to enter the US TV market alongside rivals Google, Apple and Netflix.

Microsoft has been in discussions with TV networks to create the new service, and among other things has apparently been mulling creation of a “virtual cable operator” on its Xbox console.

Such a service would, according to Reuters’ sources, charge a monthly fee for access to networks including ABC, NBC, Fox and CNN via the Xbox.

The service isn’t expected to arrive for at least a year and Microsoft has declined to comment on the story. ®