The company’s RealPlayer is the most popular free software for
downloading audio and video from the internet, with over 140
million users. It has also sold 2 million copies of RealPlayer Plus
for $29.99 per copy, being a more advanced version than the free
software.
"This is a logical next step for RealNetworks, and an important
next step for the industry," said Rob Glaser, chairman and CEO of
RealNetworks Inc. "Twenty years ago the commercial cable industry
was born, and over time it sparked the creation of a wealth of new
programming and new business models. We think today's introduction
of RealPlayer GoldPass will catalyze similar developments over the
internet."
In the months ahead, the company said in a statement:
"RealPlayer GoldPass subscribers will have
access to a growing variety of premier content, including exclusive
celebrity interviews, hot online games, sneak peeks at top new
movies, concerts and music videos, cartoons, reality programming
and other special events. They will also have access to a
broadening array of software and services."
Subscriptions for RealPlayer GoldPass will be initially priced
at $9.95 per month, in addition to the purchase of RealPlayer
Plus.
The news yesterday helped raise the company’s share price by
5.7%.
