Microsoft has delayed the launch of its Xbox One game console in China, which had been set for release on Tuesday. Microsoft said the console will eventually launch in the Asian country by the end of the year.

The Chinese government lifted a 2000 ban on gaming consoles earlier this year. Microsoft had reached a deal with Chinese internet TV set-top box maker BesTV New Media Co Ltd to form a joint venture to manufacture the consoles in Shanghai's Free Trade Zone a year ago.

Microsoft is also under investigation in China for suspected anti-trust violations related to the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office.

In May, Sony said it would set up a joint venture with Shanghai Oriental Pearl Group to bring the PlayStation games console to China.