RealNetworks snaps up Sony NetServices, nabs Vodafone music deal

RealNetworks Inc. expanded its mobile entertainment business with the $9 million acquisition of Sony NetServices.
A joint venture between Sony DADC and Sony Europe, Sony NetServices targets carriers in eight European markets with white-label music services. The company’s technology powers on-demand music and video offerings as well as ringback tones, games and other mobile content.
RealNetworks also unveiled a “multi-year” partnership with Vodafone Group plc that stems from the acquisition. RealNetworks said it will support Vodafone’s music services including streaming audio and full-track downloads in Germany, Ireland, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Romania and the United Kingdom.
With the Vodafone deal, RealNetworks boasts 12 on-demand music customers with nearly 200 million subscribers in 11 countries.
“As the world’s leading mobile communications company, Vodafone is the ideal partner to deepen Real’s presence in the global mobile marketplace,” said RealNetworks executive John Giamatteo. “We are uniquely suited to offer Vodafone customers a compelling and easy-to-use personalized music experience that takes full advantage of the reach and speed of Vodafone’s superior 3G network across Europe.”