Microsoft Press Pass: “Microsoft and RealNetworks Resolve Antitrust Case and Announce Digital Music and Games Partnership”. Some notes from Schwab
- Both Glaser and Gates recognized the opportunity in the digital media market. Glaser said the market was roughly 10 years into a 20-year trend.
- Over the next 18 months, Microsoft and RealNetworks will work to integrate the Rhapsody online music store. The companies believe there are opportunities to extend their relationship in other areas such as gaming.
- On the game side, RealNetworks will create casual game-subscription service for Microsoft's Xbox Live online video-game service.
Personally, I think this is huge. However, I'm going to keep myself out of trouble with my mouth shut (for a change) and point you to a Microsoft Monitor post by Joe Wilcox: “Microsoft Gets Real?”. Joe says it way better than I could (or should).
Heh. Now I may have to get nice and edit my “Want to play Real files but don't want Real overhead?” post.