Microsoft explains why AU still has no Video Marketplace
The online service Xbox Live Video Marketplace was a fine addition to the already powerful and flexible Xbox 360 console. Back at E3 2007, Microsoft has announced that the then U.S.-only feature will finally go global. However, that announcement only translated to a European and Canadian service with Australian fans left asking, “How about us?”
Microsoft Australia Xbox Group Marketing Manager Nick Segger recently assured Xbox 360 owners in the Land Down Under that they are planning to activate the service in the region as well but some issues pertaining to “applicable government regulations and contractual relationships” still have to be ironed out. Segger further explained:
Our contracts and agreements with content partners, particularly in the area of entertainment, typically restrict what territories we may make certain content available in. In addition, various countries may have content regulations governing what content is acceptable for distribution to their residents.
The marketing manager wasn’t able to commit to a launch date but mentioned that a dedicated team has been working to localize content and to get approvals of the different entertainment studios. When asked if the broadband Internet status in Australia will affect the service, Segger gave this reply:
Over the last few years, broadband uptake has risen each year, with more and more Australians embracing higher bandwidths. I don’t see Xbox Live Video Marketplace as being held back by broadband speeds but see this service as a key driver of consumers upgrading to higher speed and data broadband plans.
Via IGN
The online service Xbox Live Video Marketplace was a fine addition to the already powerful and flexible Xbox 360 console. Back at E3 2007, Microsoft has announced that the then U.S.-only feature will finally go global. However, that announcement only translated to a European and Canadian service with Australian fans left asking, “How about us?”
Microsoft Australia Xbox Group Marketing Manager Nick Segger recently assured Xbox 360 owners in the Land Down Under that they are planning to activate the service in the region as well but some issues pertaining to “applicable government regulations and contractual relationships” still have to be ironed out. Segger further explained:
Our contracts and agreements with content partners, particularly in the area of entertainment, typically restrict what territories we may make certain content available in. In addition, various countries may have content regulations governing what content is acceptable for distribution to their residents.
The marketing manager wasn’t able to commit to a launch date but mentioned that a dedicated team has been working to localize content and to get approvals of the different entertainment studios. When asked if the broadband Internet status in Australia will affect the service, Segger gave this reply:
Over the last few years, broadband uptake has risen each year, with more and more Australians embracing higher bandwidths. I don’t see Xbox Live Video Marketplace as being held back by broadband speeds but see this service as a key driver of consumers upgrading to higher speed and data broadband plans.
Via IGN
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