Microsoft is pushing ahead with its plans for internet television by signing a collaboration agreement with digital content firm Scientific-Atlanta to develop advanced encoders compatible with the Microsoft IP Television Edition software.

The jointly developed encoders will support MPEG4 part 10 and VC-1, the proposed Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers standard video codec based on Windows Media Video 9, to deliver integrated IPTV services.

The Redmond giant said that the agreement will allow broadband network operators to offer live and on-demand programming at lower data rates than today's current delivery systems while maintaining broadcast quality video.

"Our goal is to accelerate the availability of IPTV services for network operators worldwide," said Phil Corman, director of worldwide partner development for the Microsoft TV division.