GameGuide

This is a press release straight out of CES, the really interesting part (which I’ve highlighted in bold) is that it’s coming to New Zealand. Of course, we already have a limited number of films on demand via the Zune service, but this would suggest that New Zealand will be getting the entire range of films and other premium content. More interestingly, the press release mentions Last FM, but not specifically in connection with New Zealand. You can download the full press release. The press release mentions this service coming online Fall 2010, which would indicate that it’s Fall US time, or later this year. That’s a while away, but I guess good things come to those who wait. 

WATCH … your favorite films, shows and now even access news from the largest global TV and movie library on any console. Access thousands of movies and TV shows via Netflix, Zune video or even “News and More” to create a true movie theater experience in the comfort of your home, all on your Xbox 360 console through Xbox LIVE.

• Zune video. Zune comes to Xbox LIVE to deliver instant-on 1080p HD streaming video on your Xbox 360 console. It delivers the selection of a video megastore, in the highest possible clarity1 and with the convenience of cable. Watch the movies and TV shows you want, when you want them, with instant-on 1080p video and 5.1 surround sound. You can even find your favorite film at the touch of a button using new, enhanced search functions.

• Netflix. Watch movies instantly streamed from Netflix, and share in a party with up to seven friends in supported movies with Netflix on Xbox LIVE. Recommend your favorite shows, update your instant Queue, see the avatars of you and your friends right on your TV, and share movie party night — all on Xbox LIVE.

• “News and More.” A new section of the Inside Xbox channel, “News and More” transforms Xbox LIVE into a full-fledged media portal. With a regularly updated stream of content from MSNBC, The Weather Channel, MSN Horoscopes, The New Yorker and Dilbert, “News and More” brings the latest in current events, arts and entertainment right to your fingertips. Whether it’s the latest headlines, horoscopes or daily cartoons, the information you want is now a seamless part of your favorite entertainment destination — Xbox 360.

• BSkyB. The Xbox LIVE commitment to providing the best global entertainment gains momentum with its newest partner, Sky. Now, for the first time on Xbox LIVE, watch live or on-demand TV from Sky, including Sky Sports, right on your Xbox 360. 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 (with supported content).

• Canal+ Group. Canal+ Group on Xbox LIVE offers Xbox LIVE members in France a variety of entertainment options from CANALPLAY, CANAL+ à la demande and Foot+ straight through their Xbox 360. Never miss a moment of your favorite sports action, TV shows, movies and family-friendly content from Canal+ on Xbox LIVE.

In addition to the eight countries already enjoying movies and TV shows on Xbox LIVE through regional partnerships with studios, networks and providers such as Sky and Canal+ Group, starting this fall 10 new countries will have access to Xbox LIVE Video Marketplace. Xbox LIVE will deliver the convenience of instant-on 1080p video to an expanded global consumer base including Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Australia and New Zealand.