Microsoft and the BBC announced on Thursday that they have signed a nonexclusive memorandum of understanding to strengthen the working alliance between their two organizations. The memorandum of understanding is designed to build a framework the two companies can use to explore new opportunities for content delivery.

Signing the memorandum came as a part of the BBC's U.S. fact finding tour by director general Mark Thompson and director of new media and technology Ashley Highfield. The two met with Microsoft's chairman, Bill Gates, to discuss a new BBC Web site, Internet-based services, and ways to share online content.

"Microsoft's strength is in driving digital innovation, and our vision is to open up rich, new consumer experiences that allow people to enjoy digital content anytime, anywhere and on any device," Mr. Gates said.

Both companies will use the memorandum of understanding to identify areas of common interest to develop strategic alliances.

Mr. Thompson stated "The BBC needs to work with all players in this space to make sure our programmes and content are enjoyed by the widest possible audience, without always having to come to bbc.co.uk to find it."

iPodObserver.com's sister site, The Mac Observer has contacted the BBC to see if it plans to sign similar agreements with other technology companies, but has not received a response.