Real Unleashes MusicNet, Betas RealOne Player
As expected, RealNetworks on Tuesday launched a completely revamped GoldPass subscription service, merging its RealPlayer and RealJukebox software into a single package appropriately titled RealOne. Included in the new platform is RealOne Music, the first service to offer music subscriptions though MusicNet. A beta release of RealOne Player is now available, two months after an initial public preview was issued.
As first reported by BetaNews, an alpha release of RealOne, code-named "Viper," made an appearance last September. RealNetworks CEO Rob Glaser revealed details behind the new service shortly thereafter, promoting development of content by third parties. The company's efforts seem to have paid off, with RealOne memberships offering access to premium content from ABCNEWS.com, The Wall street Journal, CNN, E!, FoxSports, and others.
RealOne Player has its targets set directly at Microsoft's Windows Media Player in an effort to gain back much needed market share lost in recent months. The beta includes three-paned functionality to manage playlists, browse Web-based content, and play virtually all digital media types. Through a partnership with Roxio, RealOne also features the ability to burn a CD using the player.
Because the platform is based on a plug-in architecture, users may download additional drivers for portable audio devices and new skins to customize the player.
RealOne Music is powered by MusicNet, a joint venture between RealNetworks, AOL, EMI, and BMG, and will offer access to a library of over 75,000 songs. However, music downloaded or streamed through RealOne cannot be copied to portable devices, or used after a membership has ended.
Similar to GoldPass -- Real's initial subscription service launched last year -- a basic RealOne membership with access to premium channels will run $9.95 per month. RealOne Music is available separately for the same price, providing 100 music downloads and streams per month. A Gold membership combines the two, plus an additional 25 downloads and streams, for a monthly cost of $19.95. Those interested may trial RealOne free of charge for 14 days.