RealNetworks guards niche from Microsoft onslaught; Web-media pioneer tries to learn from Netscape's similar struggle

Article Abstract:

RealNetworks maintains approximately 90% of the streaming software market despite competitive moves by Microsoft. Seattle-based RealNetworks says approximately 32 million customers actively use its free software. America Online in Sep 1998 agreed to distribute the RealNetworks software to its 13 million customers. IBM's Lotus Development subsidiary today is expected to introduce a strategy to make RealNetworks's player program available to 25 million corporate users of its Notes software. Microsoft, which is attempting to position its free Windows Media Player technology as the universal multimedia receiver, says it has around five million customers. Failure to control the video playback market is hindering Microsoft's designs on multimedia, which the company believes is the next key role in the World Wide Web's development. RealNetworks CEO Rob Glaser, a former senior Microsoft executive, has studied the mistakes of other companies that agreed to licensing deals with Microsoft.

Prepackaged software, Management, Computer software industry, Software industry, Multimedia authoring software, RealNetworks Inc., RNWK, Streaming media technology, Streaming media, Multimedia software

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TCI uses hi-tech 'layer cake' to ward off Microsoft; lots of suppliers may play roles in developing interactive TV set-top boxes

Article Abstract:

The Tele-Communications-led (TCI) cable TV industry expects to support a range of technology providers for each of its several technology layers in its planned set-top box. The plan also is designed to prevent one provider, especially Microsoft, from exerting too strong a role in establishing technology standards. Microsoft probably will receive some of the business, however. TCI is continuing negotiations with Microsoft, Intel and other suppliers to deliver as many as 10 million set-top boxes, which would offer numerous interactive services over cable systems. TCI wants to develop a box that can support businesses such as additional digital TV channels, interactive TV and high-speed Internet access. The TCI deadline for submitting technical and financial proposals expired on Dec 15, 1997, and observers expect a deal by Jan 1, 1998.

Radio & TV communications equipment, Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing, CATV Addressable Converters, Research, Microsoft Corp., Intel Corp., INTC, Internet services, Cable television, MSFT, Set-top boxes (Television), Cable television/data services, Company technology development, Set-top boxes, Set-top internet box, AT&T Broadband and Internet Services Inc., TCOMA

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