Mr. Softy and the Beeb signed a memorandum of understanding suggesting technical and content cooperation in the future. The agreement could pave the way for Microsoft aiding in the state-owned British broadcaster's delivery of Internet-based digital content in the future.

The MOU between the two companies does not commit the BBC to buying any Microsoft technology for future digital services, but a representative from the broadcaster told CNET this was "definitely on the cards."

The agreement also opens the potential for the BBC to provide content to Microsoft's services such as MSN, Windows Media Center platform, Windows Live Messenger application and the Xbox console.