The New York Times > AP > Technology > RealNetworks Gets in Content Business

The New York Times > AP > Technology > RealNetworks Gets in Content Business "RealNetworks was started a decade ago by former Microsoft executive Rob Glaser, who still serves as its chairman and chief executive. It made a name for itself with its RealPlayer software, first released in 1995 and now installed on millions of computers.
But Microsoft undercut RealPlayer in the late 1990s by giving away a digital media player with Windows. RealNetworks sued on antitrust grounds. Microsoft has paid billions of dollars to settle similar suits with rivals such as Netscape and Sun Microsystems Inc. Some investors think a similar settlement with RealNetworks could boost its stock price.
But Glaser, who still owns about a third of RealNetworks shares, isn't banking on a legal windfall. He has used acquisitions and partnerships to expand into the business of selling digital music, video and games to consumers."