Microsoft is shutting down on Sept. 30 its MSN TV service that allowed users to browse the Web from their TVs. WebTV (later called MSN TV) started in 1996 with the goal to bring new people "online" and to give those already online an easy means of accessing the internet from the comfort of their homes. Later, MSN TV 2 was released with greater power and features. Since then, the web has continued to evolve and there are many new ways to access the internet. So Microsoft plans to end the MSN TV service on September 30th, 2013.

Before the service ends, users should ensure that they have saved their photos. Because only Shared Photos will display on SkyDrive, users may also need to convert their email photo attachments and photo albums to Shared Photos, Microsoft says.

Users may also be able to use their MSN TV 2 set-top box after the service ends. Those who have a home network set up via broadband, will hstill have access videos and music from a PC. Also, if they have photo albums (these are stored on the box), they can still view them.

In addition, MSN TV 2 users will be able to access their emails using their previous id through Microsoft's webmail client, Outlook.com, after the MSN TV service is closed down.

Microsoft's move comes even as Apple and Samsung are exploring ways of bringing more online content to TV sets.