Cable television shows head for Xbox Live

Microsoft on Wednesday announced it will begin streaming a rich array of television shows on its Xbox Live videogame console online entertainment network in more than 20 countries by year's end.

The US technology giant said it will bring in a "new era in television" by year's end through alliances with nearly 40 program providers including HBO, Comcast, Verizon FiOS, BBC, Telefonica in Spain, and Germany's ZDF.

"Today's announcement is a major step toward realizing our vision to bring you all the entertainment you want," said Microsoft interactive entertainment business president Don Mattrick.

"Combining the world's leading TV and entertainment providers with the power of Kinect for Xbox 360 and the intelligence of Bing voice search will make TV and entertainment more personal, social and effortless," he contended.

Kinect accessories let people control Xbox 360 consoles with spoken commands or natural gestures.

Microsoft and PlayStation 3 console maker Sony have been busily transforming their rival online networks into virtual living rooms where people can enjoy films, music, and socializing as well as videogames.

Xbox Live and PlayStation Network in the United States already stream television shows and films to the competing consoles through Netflix and Hulu services.

Nearly a year ago, AT&T U-verse became the first TV provider in the US to launch live TV on Xbox 360, according to Jeff Weber, a vice president of video services at the telecom colossus.

"Now we look forward to working with Microsoft to deliver even more innovative features that will allow U-verse customers to use voice and gesture controls to manage their TV experience," Weber said.