XBOX will upgrade video download quality to 1080p

Connect to Facebook/Twitter, recommend via email and much more.

---

Microsoft just announced that they will upgrade the video quality of their downloads to 1080p.

Larry Hryb wrote on his blog (live from the press event) :

"First, we´re upgrading our HD video library to the highest quality possible – full 1080p."

"And We´re announcing that our movies and TV shows can be enjoyed instantly -- no disc, no download, no delay."

"Third, we´re more than doubling the number of countries our video store is in, from eight to 18. Welcome to instant-on 1080p HD, where the picture has never been better, the experience has never been faster, and the audience has never been larger."

"When it launches worldwide this Fall, instant-on 1080p HD will have far-reaching implications, because it´s the best way to experience HD."

Press Release:
1080p HD in an Instant

Continuing a pioneering effort that began with the introduction of the industry´s first video marketplace in November 2006 and broke new ground with the announcement of the first live TV straight from a gaming console last week in the U.K., Microsoft today announced that Xbox would deliver yet another first-to-the-world: instant on 1080p movies and TV with 5.1 surround sound — direct to consoles connected to compatible HD TVs through the Xbox LIVE social entertainment network.

Starting this fall, a broad selection of movies and TV shows from Zune video on Xbox 360 will be available to start and stream instantly, in the highest video quality and at the push of a button.2 No discs, no waiting for downloads and no delays. Get the selection of a video megastore, the best video clarity available and the convenience of on-demand, only on Xbox 360.

In addition, Microsoft announced it will more than double the number of markets where Xbox LIVE offers its TV shows and movies, growing from eight to 18, by adding Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland. Xbox LIVE members in these markets will have access to instant on 1080p video. New Xbox LIVE Video Marketplace advancements also came for the U.S., U.K.and Ireland, specifically:

· More choices with Netflix. Watch movies instantly streamed from Netflix.3 Browse and add selections to your instant Queue — right on your TV with your Xbox 360. Plus now with Xbox LIVE Party, you can watch and share supported movies with up to seven friends on Xbox LIVE. Debating between comedy and horror? Recommend your favorites to friends and see your virtual you as an avatar on the silver screen.

· Live TV with BSkyB Ltd. The Xbox LIVE commitment to providing the best global entertainment gains momentum with its newest partner, Sky. Now, for the first time, watch live or on-demand TV from Sky on Xbox 360, including Sky Sports. Never miss a moment of your favorite live TV shows, sports, movies and family-friendly entertainment across the U.K. and Ireland on Xbox LIVE. You can even share your favorites with up to seven friends in an Xbox LIVE Party.

---

Connect to Facebook/Twitter, recommend via email and much more.

---