RealSystem 8 Hits Europe

RealNetworks has announced that it is deploying its new RealSystem 8 streaming server technology through major European media delivery networks. Through partnerships with broadband Internet provider Chello, Deutsche Telekom, and Madge, this deployment is designed to provide broadband subscribers with quality video content, and allow service provider networks to offer higher levels of service and develop new revenue models.

In an attempt to extend the reach of high-quality audio and video directly into homes and businesses in Europe, RealNetworks has also begun broadband trials with major European broadband service providers, including British Telecom, Freeserve, Loral Cyberstar, SES/Astra and SkyStream Networks.

RealSystem 8 includes RealVideo 8, a technology co-developed by RealNetworks and Intel designed to optimize the quality of streaming video. RealNetworks claims that this technology enables the delivery of high-quality, full-motion video over dial-up connections; full-screen VHS-quality video at mainstream broadband rates; and near DVD-quality video over very high capacity networks.

"RealSystem 8 has introduced a new level of Internet video quality to consumers around the world," said Jeff Pancottine, senior vice president, Media Systems, RealNetworks. "The distributed delivery system we're building with leading infrastructure providers opens up entirely new markets for developing, hosting, delivering and viewing video through broadband connections."