Microsoft Expands Xbox 360 Video Offerings Amid Growing Streaming Competition

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft has secured deals with cable companies and media firms to offer additional video content on its Xbox 360 game console, expanding its streaming video offerings as rivals like Amazon and Apple also push into the market. The software giant aims to capitalize on the growing demand for online video, while Netflix faces backlash over price hikes and a recent separation of its streaming and DVD-by-mail services. Meanwhile, Dish Networks and Google are competing for a stake in Hulu, a popular online video site.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft has lined up content deals with Comcast, Verizon Communications, Time Warner's HBO unit, and media companies in the UK, Spain, and Mexico for its Xbox 360 game console.
  • Users of the Xbox Live premium service can access Netflix, Hulu, and AT&T U-verse through the game console.
  • Netflix faces subscriber losses due to recent price hikes and the separation of its streaming service from its DVD-by-mail service.
  • Dish Networks has unveiled pricing for its Blockbuster Movie Pass streaming video and DVD service, targeting disgruntled Netflix customers.
  • Google and Dish Networks are competing for a stake in the popular online video site Hulu.

Statistics:

  • Microsoft's shares rose 2% as they lined up more content deals for the Xbox 360.
  • Shares of Comcast and Verizon Communications, which are providing online cable video to the Xbox, were also up.
  • Netflix lost subscribers due to recent price hikes and the separation of its streaming service from its DVD-by-mail service.
  • Dish Networks has set pricing for its Blockbuster Movie Pass streaming video and DVD service at $14.99 per month.

Sources:

  • "Microsoft has lined up more content from cable companies and media firms for its Xbox 360 game console, as the software giant expands its video offerings." - Investor's Business Daily
  • "Amazon.com launched its Kindle Fire tablet [that] is expected to boost its streaming video sales." - Investor's Business Daily
  • "Apple's iCloud service is seen encouraging music and video sales from its iTunes store." - Investor's Business Daily
  • "Comcast and Verizon Communications, which are providing online cable video to the Xbox, were also up." - Investor's Business Daily
  • "Dish Networks and Google are now seen as the top bidders for the highly coveted online video site Hulu." - Investor's Business Daily