RealNetworks has acquired Sony's NetServices division, in doing so becoming a key provider of mobile music services to Vodafone.
The deal, for an as yet undisclosed sum, means Real is now powering Vodafone's streaming audio offering across Europe having taken over agreements already put in place by NetServices.It's a significant deal for Real, following its acquisition of mobile music pioneer WiderThan last year. Real is also very active in mobile games, having bought Finland-based developer Mr. Goodliving in 2005.
Sony NetServices was a joint venture between Sony DADC and Sony Europe, previously marketed as StreamMan by Sony.
Its internet radio-style streaming music services are already available through Vodafone in Germany, Ireland, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Romania and the UK. TeliaSonera in Finland is also a client.
Real and Voda say they will be working together to develop and launch new music services in the future. Openwave-owned Musiwave is also a key music partner for Vodafone.
Article continues belowAdvertisement
Dirk Wierzbitzki, global director of consumer product marketing at Vodafone, said: "Real offers Vodafone a unique combination of industry-leading technology and the ability to deliver compelling entertainment services that enhance our customers' mobile experience. We look forward to working with them."
John Giamatteo, president of technology products and solutions at RealNetworks, said: "We are uniquely suited to offer Vodafone customers a compelling and easy-to-use personalised music experience that takes full advantage of the reach and speed of Vodafone's superior 3G networks across Europe."
The addition of Vodafone as a customer means RealNetworks now has 12 mobile music on demand customers in 11 countries.
