Redmond, Wash. - Microsoft (NASD: MSFT) announced on Tuesday that it has added more than 800 downloadable TV show episodes from NBC Universal (NYSE: GE), Viacom (NYSE: VIA), Time Warner (NYSE: TWX), Liberty Media (NASD: LINTA) and other providers to the online store for its Zune portable media player. Notable in the deal is NBC Universal's inclusion, as the company's programs disappeared from Apple's iTunes Store in December following disputes over pricing and bundling. "Partnering with Zune will allow us to develop innovative content offerings for their customers, including flexible pricing and packaging options beginning this fall," said JB Perrette, president of NBC Universal Digital Distribution.

NBC Universal will offer NBC's "The Office," "Heroes" and "30 Rock." Also on offer will be programming from Viacom's MTV, VHI, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon networks; Liberty's Starz/Manga Entertainment; Time Warner's Turner Broadcasting; FUNimation; and Ultimate Fighting Championship.

TV episodes will be priced at 160 Microsoft Points each, which equates to about $1.99, and made available as series subscriptions or a la carte.

Related Links:
http://www.zune.net/en-us/press/2008/0505-springupdate.htm