Direct broadcast satellite service DirecTV will join with
Microsoft to provide personal computers access to DirecTV's
digital video programming and interactive data services by the
end of the year, according to AD AGE ONLINE. DirecTV will become
the first DBS service available by TV or computer (AD AGE ONLINE,
3/12). Eddy Hartenstein, President of DirecTV, said "one
possible application cold be 'multimedia magazines'" such as a
sports magazine that shows highlights, graphics, and scores on a
PC from recent games. Microsoft hopes to develop specifications
by year end so Windows '95 users will be able to play new
services delivered over the system. PC users also will need
DirecTV hardware, including a satellite dish, to receive the
services (WALL STREET JOURNAL, 3/12). DirecTV is negotiating
with suppliers, including GE's MSNBC on-line venture with
Microsoft, to supply programming for the venture (BLOOMBERG
BUSINESS NEWS/TAMPA TRIBUNE, 3/12).
CBS CONFIRMS FOX TALKS: CBS confirmed they have held talks
with Fox about being partners in a 24-hour news service, but the
network said an alliance is "not being pursued at this point"
(HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, 3/12).
