The new triple-play offering, which will be the first in France to be based on the Microsoft TV software platform, will include IPTV and feature a VOD subscription service of around 1,000 programs.

According to Microsoft, its software platform will support instant channel change, picture-in-picture (PiP) functionality (so viewers can watch two programs simultaneously, bandwidth permitting), and DVR functionality.

The TV guide looks two weeks ahead and the entire library of content can be searched by program or actor name while viewers continue to watch their current program.

Christine Heckart, general manager of marketing for Microsoft TV, says: Club Internet can combine its experience in pioneering innovative Internet services with the power of next-generation IPTV technologies to deliver unique TV and communications services that are truly integrated.

Deutsche Telekom has already selected the Microsoft TV IPTV Edition middleware for its domestic IPTV deployment, expected later this summer.