RealNetworks adds Flash to audio-video software

Continuing its push toward offering capabilities normally associated with generic Web browsing, RealNetworks is adding Web animation technology to its flagship RealSystem software.

RealNetworks plans to integrate Macromedia's Flash 4 animation software into RealSystem, which transmits audio and video over the Web. RealNetworks plans to pitch the souped-up RealSystem to companies with e-commerce offerings.

"Consumers who currently shop directly from within the RealPlayer can now take full advantage of interactive text and graphics," the companies said in a statement. "The integration amounts to one of the world's richest and most complete online shopping experiences."

The addition of Flash 4 is the latest move by RealNetworks to advance on the territory of traditional browsers. It comes directly on the heels of the company's creation of streaming media software with fairly advanced Web page-viewing capabilities.

That product was created for a RealNetworks consulting client, Global Media, and is not available for general use.

RealNetworks will demonstrate RealSystem's Flash integration at the Real Conference 2000 in San Jose, Calif., next week.