Ten and Microsoft to launch on-demand Xbox app

The Ten Network and Microsoft have launched an app, making catch-up viewing of a selection of shows available on the Xbox.

The app gives Xbox Gold LIVE users access to a library of around 25 Ten programs from channels Ten, Eleven and One. Programs featured included Offspring, The Graham Norton Show, Bondi Vet and Bondi Rescue.

“We are delighted to be the first Australian commercial free-to-air network to join forces with Xbox to provide its consumers with new entertainment, comedy, reality and news content,” said Rebekah Horne, Ten’s chief digital officer.

“This is the first product release in Ten’s TV anywhere strategy. Our goal is to deliver a TV experience anywhere that consumers are engaging with video content. Ten’s TV anywhere strategy will be realised over time by a number of product releases across different platforms and devices,” she said.

Ten’s agreement with Microsoft expands the reach of its online catch-up viewing service and comes at a time when rivals Nine and Seven are planning the expansions of their broader IPTV services,

Microsoft Australia’s interactive entertainment business lead, Jeremy Hinton, said: “Our aim is to provide Australian Xbox LIVE members with the best and most popular television content, alongside movies, music and games, and now they will be able to access some of Australia’s highest rated local and international shows,” he said.

The deal comes three years after a similar one involving Foxtel.