Microsoft Eyes Europe, Launches Windows Live Messenger TV

The software leader Microsoft Corp. announced to launch a new online messenger TV service across 20 countries, which will allow internet users to view video clips along with their network of friends and at the same time chat via Windows Live Messenger. This move by Microsoft clearly indicates its motive to generate more revenue from internet advertising.

The new technology will offer European users a variety of clips on MSN Video from different sources such as MTV shows like “Punk’d” and “Pimp My Ride”, as well as music videos from Sony BMG and other third parties.

Microsoft declared that it has entered into content partnerships with the UK’s broadcaster Channel 4 and EMI to acquire videos from hit shows like ‘Ramsey’s Kitchen Nightmare’ and renowned performers such as Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue.

Other content partners  comprise of Reuters, the ITN Network, and National Geographic.

Microsoft has anticipated that watching clips with friends on a computer network would give rise to a new social experience and attract users who are already hooked on social networks for several hours.

John Mangelaars, Vice-President, Online Group, EMEA has stated that online video has been something people view on one’s own so far, although it has exploded in popularity over the last one year.