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BSkyB and Microsoft in Video Pact

Forbes reports, reminiscent of politicians clambering for the center ground, certain tech and media corporations are looking for that lucrative synthesis between the passive consumption of video, and the interactive computer.

After buddying-up with software giant Microsoft, satellite provider British Sky Broadcasting Group (BSkyB) is set to launch a video-on-demand service for PCs. The launch next week, which is part of Chief Executive James Murdoch's push into broadband, will reportedly give its 8 million British subscribers a chance to see highlights from film and sports--from the comfort of their computer screen.

Sounds like a head-to-head clash with Google, we hear you say? Indeed: Murdoch is joining forces with Gates in what is already a wider bout with that firm. The Internet search behemoth also has reportedly similar plans to allow users to search for and buy videos through its site, having apparently signed up with content partners like CBS and the National Basketball Association.

BSkyB subscribers who own a PC with Microsoft's Media Center software will from this Tuesday be able to access the feature through the "Sky By Broadband" service. Unlike Google's video offering, the service will offer premium content for a price.

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