The new service, Messenger TV, combines the Windows Live instant-messaging (IM) program with video software to let you watch and share video clips.

A deal to provide content such as Peep Show, Property Ladder, Father Ted and Shameless has been struck with Channel 4. Clips are up to four minutes in length.

Messenger TV will initially be available in Europe, home to 95 million users of Windows Live Messenger.

It will also provide access to MTV content, including clips from South Park and Pimp My Ride, as well as music videos from Kylie to Britney Spears.

Peter Bale, executive producer at MSN UK, called the new service "a powerful sharing experience".

The move by the software giant is part of an expansion into internet advertising. Video clips will include pre-roll ads and a banner that runs at the bottom of the Messenger TV window.

MSN would not reveal details of the deals with EMI or Channel 4.

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