According to the New York Times, Microsoft and Disney have held ”in-depth talks” about striking a programming deal. Not imminent.
”Microsoft has held in-depth talks with the Walt Disney Company about a programming deal with ESPN, according to people close to the talks, who requested anonymity because the talks were intended to be private,” reports NYTimes.
ESPN 360 is already a service that streams sports events through some high-speed ISPs in the US, but it could take a more literal meaning if it reaches Xbox 360’s Xbox Live. ”Microsoft could also create some interactive games in association with ESPN, the people said, although a deal has not yet been struck,” continued the piece.
Xbox 360 already enjoys a Netflix service in the US, with the PlayStation 3 now joining in but with a disc based version. Nintendo Wii gets it this spring time.
“For both of the big guys, it’s about extending the value of the hardware platform,” said research firm Gartner’s Mike McGuire, referring to Microsoft and Sony.
”The devices are hooked to TVs and have broadband connections, and there are more and more opportunities to license movies and TV shows and deliver them in over-the-top models.” Have you used one of these streaming services through XBL or PSN? Let us know in the forums.
