Progressive Networks today announced support from WebTV Networks, Navio, Oracle's Net Computer Inc., Bandai and Japan Computer Corporation, and Aplix to integrate Progressive Networks' RealAudio and RealVideo technology into a wide variety of web appliances and network computers.

"If the Internet is going to be the next great mass medium, then access to the Internet shouldn't be limited to the PC platform; it should also work on TVs, network computers and other web devices," said Rob Glaser chairman and CEO, Progressive Networks. "Progressive Networks is very focused on delivering RealAudio and RealVideo technology across a variety of software and hardware platforms, and is pleased today to announce support from a host of world-class partners."

WebTV Networks Inc., makers of the first high-quality Internet solution for television sets, announced plans today to endorse Progressive Networks' RealVideo. Progressive Networks and WebTV developers are working together to make RealVideo the streaming video standard for low cost Internet appliances. RealVideo 1.0 is the first full-featured, cross-platform solution for delivering compelling streaming video content over the Internet.

"We are excited about RealVideo as the premier streaming video solution that complements VideoFlash(TM) and together will provide a full featured video solution," said Steve Perlman, CEO, WebTV Networks Inc. "WebTV Networks is excited about working together with Progressive Networks in a strategic partnership for streaming Internet audio and video to enhance the experience of WebTV Network subscribers."

Network Computer, Inc. (NCI), Oracle's wholly-owned subsidiary, has integrated the RealAudio Player 3.0 as part of its NC Access network computer software. NCI recently announced the first complete family of network computer products that will bring inexpensive and easy-to-use NCs to corporations and consumers.

"RealAudio is a key component of the multimedia experience we're providing with NC Access, the software for the network computer," said Bonnie Crater, vice president of strategic marketing at Network Computer, Inc. "By incorporating it into our software suite, users will enjoy instant click-and-play audio."

"The support of Progressive Network's RealAudio Player Plus 3.0 in Navio's platform ensures that the best and most prevalent streaming audio content is available to all Navio customers," said David Limp, director of Product Marketing at Navio Communications, Inc. Navio is a Netscape-owned company.

Bandai Digital Entertainment has integrated Progressive Networks' RealAudio Player Plus 3.0 within their Internet system for television, Pippin @World.

"By offering RealAudio Player Plus 3.0, Bandai Digital Entertainment is positioning the Pippin @World as a leading edge multimedia player and Internet access device," said John McGanty, senior marketing manager of Bandai Digital Entertainment. "Our partnership with Progressive Networks helps demonstrate our commitment to the Pippin platform."

JCC (Japan Computer Corporation) and Aplix Corporation also announced today their support of Progressive Networks' broadcast technology. JCC will be incorporating RealAudio and RealVideo into their set-top box. Aplix will be integrating RealAudio and RealVideo into their browser technology to enrich Internet appliances.

Also announced today, WebTV and Bandai Digital Entertainment's @World will integrate customized versions of Progressive Networks' Timecast guide into their services. Timecast offers users an extensive guide to a wide variety of RealAudio and RealVideo programming on the Web.

About Progressive Networks

Progressive Networks, based in Seattle, Wash., is the streaming media market leader. It develops and markets software products and services designed to enable users of personal computers and other consumer electronic devices to send and receive audio, video and other multimedia services using the web. Since the launch of RealVideo February 10, 1997, more than two million consumers have downloaded the beta RealPlayer, which plays both RealVideo and RealAudio programs. More than 80 entertainment and technology companies also have embraced RealVideo.

Source: Progressive Networks