Real's Reality

prostoalex writes "While Real Networks claims its market share and low profit numbers are the result of Microsoft's anti-competitive behavior, there are some alternative views. News.com has an article on Real's reality, which reveals many interesting practices that Real resorted to. "Although RealNetworks had already licensed Microsoft's formats for use in its media player, it didn't have Windows Media licenses for its server technology. Undeterred, the company found a way to essentially replicate the Windows Media code, trumpeting its new software as the Internet's first "universal" streaming system", says News.com." Read on for more.

"There's also an interesting conversation going on at Jogin.com, which started with this post from the author, basically a rant, describing how inconvenient and even hostile Real Player is. It would be like any other rant, except an employee of Real Networks replied with some insights into the company's wrongdoings and somewhat explained Real's undeterred hostility towards those who downloaded the free version of its player. Furthermore, a consultant, who used to work at Real Networks, replied, sharing some questionable practices Real engaged in, such as hiding a variety of "add-ons" at the bottom of the page, hoping that the user would not scroll down to un-check the selections, and then charging his credit card for add-ons when he signed up for paid version on Real One."

Comments

This is because ...

[Poligraf]

... he is Russian. So, he has actually studied English ;-).

WinAmp

[rice_web]

WinAmp used to be a good player, too, but then it added video support.

Are all companies that produce audio players doomed to create crappy video players (please don't do the same MMPLayer)?

Re:What do...

[normal_guy]

You know, that vintage Penny-Arcade comic demonstrates why the other artists don't have nearly the traffic of PA. They haven't evolved as artists.