CBC And Microsoft Announce Hockey Deal

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and Microsoft Canada have announced a new collaboration which will see the development of new technology and distribution opportunities.
With a focus on increasing distribution, promotional and sponsorship opportunities, the relationship will see CBC video content extend its content onto multiple Microsoft platforms including MSN.ca, Xbox, Windows 8, Windows Phone 8 and more.
One such development will be the new Hockey Night In Canada app, which will be available inside Microsoft's on-line Xbox 360 service, Xbox LIVE, and free to paid, monthly Xbox LIVE Gold users.
With the Stanley Cup Playoffs® just around the corner, the new app will give hockey fans the chance to access and watch all of CBC's live game broadcasts, as well as hockey favourites like Coach's Corner with Don Cherry and Ron MacLean.
"CBC is proud to work with Microsoft on these collaborative projects," said Kirstine Stewart, executive vice-president, CBC English Services.
"We are excited about working together to bring innovative experiences to Canadians with our content on these platforms."
"We are pleased at the prospect of expanding our distribution and leveraging unique promotional and sponsorship opportunities on these exceptional platforms, including the Hockey Night in Canada app for Xbox LIVE," added Jeffrey Orridge, executive director, Sports Properties.
"At Microsoft Canada, we value in giving our audiences more across our platforms and devices," said Greg Barber, VP, Consumer Channels Group, Microsoft Canada.
"This collaboration allows us to give our users more across the devices they know and love."
"With Xbox LIVE, we aim to provide our members with new, engaging entertainment," said Glenn Purkis, Category Manager - Xbox LIVE Canada. "This collaboration with CBC gives Xbox LIVE Gold members the chance to experience CBC's HOCKEY NIGHT IN CANADA unlike ever before."
With the new app, fans can keep up-to-date on upcoming game schedules, review scores and statistics, share videos and see what content their friends and fellow users are watching.
www.cbc.ca
(IT/CD)