An increase in Internet audio and video content has
propelled usage of RealNetworks’
RealPlayer over the 50 million user mark, the company said Wednesday
Research firm Media Metrix also reported RealPlayer had the largest growth of
any desktop application in 1998. Its user base increased by more than 30
million registered users since December 1997.
The extensive rise in users was fueled by the advent of RealPlayer G2, as
well as RealChannels, the company said. Usage of RealChannels soared by
more than 500 percent in 1998. RealChannels provide consumers with access
to programming from media companies such as ABC, CNN, ESPN, and the Wall
Street Journal, and are built into RealPlayer G2. InternetNews.com’s
daily radio broadcast is also a featured channel on the G2 player.
“With more than 50 million registered users, RealPlayer has become nearly
ubiquitous,” said Rob Glaser, chairman and CEO, RealNetworks, Inc.
“Coupling this phenomenal reach with the explosion in actual usage
demonstrates the success of both RealNetworks
technology and the richness of media programming which can be accessed
using the RealPlayer.”
RealNetworks has an estimated 85 percent share of the streaming media
market, ahead of Microsoft Corp.‘s
NetShow platform.