Managing Editor, chicago.internet.com
Elmwood Park, IL-based Akoo.com today announced a marketing partnership with RealNetworks, Inc. (NASDAQ: RNWK), under which Akoo will bundle its wireless Internet audio device, Kima, with RealNetworks’ RealJukebox, the market-leading jukebox software which enables consumers to build and manage extensive digital music collections.
Akoo’s recently introduced Kima allows users to wirelessly access Internet radio, MP3 files and digital music on any stereo or portable radio up to 1,000 feet away.
“Akoo’s Kima wireless audio device has created an interesting new way for users to experience digital music as well as access their music libraries,” stated Steve Banfield, General Manager, Consumer Products, RealNetworks, Inc. “It’s therefore only natural for us to bundle the RealJukebox with Kima, so that its users can enjoy the ease and organizational qualities of RealJukebox to compile their playlists from MP3 and RealAudio files, as well as their own CDs.”
Under the terms of the agreement, every copy of RealJuxebox bundled with the Kima will also contain a direct link to Akoo’s website, which features programming from 5,000 Internet radio stations, several thousand music videos, and the akoo Music Network comprised of seven digital music channels in the areas of Dance, Rock, Pop, R&B, Latin, Country and Alternative.
“We’re very pleased to have the leading digital music player bundled with Kima,” said Niko Drakoulis, Akoo’s president and CEO. “RealJuxebox users can tap Kima to listen to their digital music libraries away from their computers and on the home entertainment system of their choice, thus enhancing the overall music experience.”
