Reliance Communications and Microsoft have announced a strategic partnership to deliver a highly connected, personalised TV experience to consumers in India through Reliance's IPTV service, which will be powered by Microsoft Mediaroom Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) software platform.

Reliance's IPTV service includes several features, such as video-on-demand (VOD), digital video recording (DVR), instant channel changing, and personal media sharing. The service will be launched by fiscal end (March 2008).

"As consumers today are becoming more sophisticated, they are demanding more compelling and personalised entertainment to suit their individual needs and preferences," said Anil D Ambani, chairman, Reliance Communications. "We're excited to partner with Microsoft to unlock the potential of television and offer Indian subscribers the very best TV and connected entertainment experiences."

According to Steve Ballmer, CEO, Microsoft, "TV is the only major digital device that has been left out of the networking revolution, and Microsoft and Reliance are now making the TV a first class citizen in the connected entertainment landscape.  By connecting the TV to an intelligent two-way network and adding powerful software, new connected and personalised experiences will become possible here in India."

"In addition to the obvious benefit that will come to the consumers, this offering will also benefit the media industry at large," adds Ravi Venkatesan, chairman, Microsoft India. "Whether it is the content providers, the platform owners or the advertisers, they will get better value for their money. This is critical for the long term growth and sustenance of the television industry."