President and Chief Executive Officer of Sony Computer Entertainment America Jack Tretton addresses attendees at the Sony Computer Entertainment America news conference at the 2008 E3 Media & Business Summit in Los Angeles July 15, 2008. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Sony Corp 6758.T said it will launch a PlayStation 3-based video distribution service later on Tuesday, taking aim at a stronghold of Microsoft Corp's MSFT.O Xbox 360.

Sony also said movies from at least seven studios including Walt Disney Co DIS.N will be available on the service to rent or to own. Television programs will also be available on the video service.