SYDNEY 30 OCTOBER 2008 – Xbox Australia, Network Ten and FremantleMedia Australia today announced an agreement which will see one of the world’s leading entertainment brands, Xbox 360, partner with Australia’s premier reality entertainment show, Australian Idol.

The partnership coincides with the launch of the new Xbox 360 title Lips, a brand new singing title launching on the console late November. An Xbox 360 exclusive singing game, it measures both your performance and vocal ability, with wireless motion-sensitive microphones so you can jump around the room as you belt out your favourite songs.

The activity is set to commence on Sunday November 2nd. The television commercials appearing during advertising breaks will offer one lucky Australian the chance to perform a duet with one of the Australian Idol contestants.

“This is a very exciting partnership for Xbox 360”, said David McLean, Entertainment Division Regional Director, Microsoft. “Australian Idol is a program which gives ordinary people the chance to step-up, show off their talent and become a star. Now, with the new Xbox 360 title Lips, every Australian has the chance to unleash their inner Idol and maybe win a chance to perform alongside one of their heroes off screen”.

With Lips, you have the ability to sing an amazing amount of songs. Featuring an extensive collection of hits available on the game disc, the interactive game can be complimented with favourites from your own collection of songs. Simply connect your music player to your Xbox 360 and sing your heart out in ‘Freestyle’ mode.

The Australian Idol partnership continues Xbox 360’s broader music strategy, linking in with the Xbox Sounds series of music events which kicked off in October, and the launch of Lips scheduled for late November.