TORONTO – Programming from Astral Media’s multi-platform brand Disney XD will be made available on the Xbox 360 console through Xbox LIVE, the premium online entertainment service for Xbox 360, the companies announced today.
One of the first kids entertainment brands to make content available to Canadian families through Xbox LIVE, Disney XD will offer a sampling line-up that includes popular titles such as Phineas and Ferb, Kickin’ It and What’s Up, Warthogs!. Programming will be available concurrent upon launch of the service this winter.
The Astral programming deal is thought to be just the first of many to come in Canada as Microsoft gears up for a winter launch of TV programming for Xbox LIVE in Canada, according to the Globe and Mail. Telus Optik TV customers are already used to using the gaming platform as their TV conduit as Xbox 360 is offered in its regions as a set top box option.
"Disney XD and Kinect for Xbox 360 are a perfect match and we are excited by the prospect of delivering content in a way that is truly relevant to the Disney XD brand and audience. It is the ideal way to showcase exactly what the brand has to offer and build on the success of our linear service," said Domenic Vivolo, senior vice-president, marketing and sales, Astral Television Networks, in a release.
"Our partnership with the Disney XD-branded platform, operated in Canada by Astral, marks a significant milestone in our vision to bring you all the TV entertainment you want, shared with the people you care about, made easy," added Pete Thompson, general manager, Xbox LIVE.
“Disney XD is an advertising-supported multi-platform channel for kids aged six to 14, targeting boys and their quest for discovery, accomplishment, sports, adventure and humour while still inclusive of girl audiences looking for similar themes and programs,” says Astral.
Available free of charge to Xbox LIVE Gold members, the Disney XD offering will include regularly refreshed episodes from ten Disney XD series: Phineas and Ferb, Kick Buttowski – Suburban Daredevil, Kickin’ It, Pair of Kings, I’m In The Band, Zeke and Luther, What’s Up Warthogs, Baxter, Connor Undercover, and Life with Derek.
