RealNetworks focussed on Europe

In a recent spate of announcements, RealNetworks has struck deals with MTV and has launched a European games website, signalling a more focussed strategy for Europe.

The deal with MTV has produced the MTV UK RealChannel, a dedicated, free UK content channel on Realplayer from MTV's Internet division: MTVi. Recent content includes an interview with Usher with live performances from Liberty and Destiny's Child.

The seven-language games site is aimed at Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Sweden, and will allow developers to generate digital distribution partnerships, according to Real. PC users can try before they buy, with most games offering a video preview and a downloadable trial version.

George Fraser, RealNetworks director Northern Europe, said: ‘In terms of the desktop our strategy for Europe is the same as our global one – making people successful through streaming. Last year the aim was to lift the stock price, now everyone’s looking for revenue.’

Fraser continued: ‘It’s all about monetising content. The real area where our European strategy differs here is in the mobile space – we are looking to 3G as a huge opportunity, and are far advanced in talks with UK operators regarding GPRS. It would be fair to say that in 6 months we will be supplying more than technical trials in this area.’