Digital TV and broadband provider Sky is to launch its online broadcast service on the Xbox 360 gradually.

After a number of problems with Sky Player's launch last week, Microsoft has revealed in a forum posting that initial demand for the service, with a high number of people looking to gain access through the Live Marketplace at the same time, led it to collapse.

However, the firm added that the revised plan of action will mean "tens of thousands" of people are to gain access to the service on a daily basis, until it is eventually available to everyone.

"We are taking this phased approach to ensure that consumers experience a high-quality experience," the statement outlined.

"The Sky team has contacted the affected Sky Player TV subscribers on Xbox directly with further updates."

Sky will be hoping that no such problems arise when Sky Player is launched through IP Vision's Fetch TV service from the start of next year.