AudioSoft signed a development agreement with RealNetworks integrate its digital copyright management technology onto the RealSystem G2 platform for ready deployment to Webcasters.

AudioSoft's service provides real time reporting of playlists for copyright collection societies. With the initial implementation, AudioSoft will provide a base level service free of charge to Webcasters. Working with copyright collection societies worldwide, AudioSoft said it will ensure that the new system meets the music industry reporting requirements and the territory based diversities that copyright collection societies must address to support the rights holders of music in the Internet space.

"We have always focused on making the best content available worldwide while respecting the various national practices and laws that govern usage of copyrighted works," said Phil Barrett, senior vice president of Media Technologies, RealNetworks, Inc. "We are happy to be working with AudioSoft, whose core mission is to provide infrastructure solutions for the music industry in the digital age."

"We're pleased to be working with RealNetworks, the recognized leader in streaming media and digital delivery of music, on this most timely and needed solution within the music industry," said Gary Ludlow, vice president and general manager of the Americas at AudioSoft. "This agreement is a key step forward, both for AudioSoft and the music industry, as it addresses a fundamental dilemma surrounding the Internet and streamed audio."

"Our technology provides the Internet linchpin that connects copyrighted content usage, on a worldwide basis, with the appropriate copyright holders. AudioSoft's technology is the answer to concerns of copyright holders surrounding the streaming of their copyrighted musical works over the Internet."