Real Adds Web-Based Rhapsody Version

RealNetworks is launching the beta of a web-based version of music service Rhapsody that will open access to Apple and Linux users — and will allow Rhapsody subs to use their account from any internet-connected computer, according to the AP. It’s a big step but not the full monty: the web-based version will be stream-only; downloads and purchases still have to go through the Rhapsody download app.

CEO Rob Glaser told the AP he wouldn’t be disappointed if the bulk of the web users only listen to Rhapsody 25, the option that offers 25 free songs a month: “If it turns out the vast majority decide they want to listen for free
that’s great because the Internet advertising market is doing pretty well,
too.”

Real is also starting to offer other companies a way to link from external sites into Rhapsody — for instance, to send users directly to certain songs — but is months away from being able to deliver a version that isn’t linked to a Rhapsody log-in.

Reuters: In the coming week, Rhapsody.com will be available within Microsoft’s Windows Media Player 10. Next year MSN will be using Rhapsody Web Services to integrate Rhapsody into its MSN Search, MSN Messenger and MSN Music services

News.com: RealNetworks is also hoping that other sites, from music magazines to MP3 bloggers, will post links to the service. The company is providing a way to link directly to individual songs through this Web-based platform, so that a blogger might allow visitors to listen to a favorite song for free by popping up the Rhapsody player. The direct link to songs will initially be demonstrated on the RollingStone.com site, which is operated by RealNetworks.

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