Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) announced Thursday in Shanghai that they are launching the Microsoft Windows Azure Cloud Platform in China, in conjunction with Chinese media outlet PPTV. This will be the world’s first cloud TV platform.

PPTV is a video freeware service created at Huazhong University of Science and Technology. The partnership was originally signed in July 2012 and marked the launch of PPTVT Asia TV Networks. PPTV reports it has 100 million “overseas users” in countries like Indonesia and Japan, as well as Europe and North America, and the cloud platform will allow them easier access to paid TV services.

"PPTV's providing real-time live video in Thailand and Indonesia via Windows Azure Cloud Platform is a brand-new market opportunity, which was unimaginable in the past,” Microsoft Senior Vice President, Chairman and CEO of Greater China Ralph Haupter said in a press statement. “We are so excited to have such a great application on our platform."

An “industry insider” told PR Newswire they expect this will greatly expand both PPTV’s and Microsoft’s influence overseas.

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