RealNetworks Launches Rhapsody DNA Platform, Partners with SanDisk on a Groundbreaking New Experience for Sansa e200 MP3 Players

RealNetworks Launches Rhapsody DNA Platform, Partners with SanDisk on a Groundbreaking New Experience for Sansa e200 MP3 Players

RealNetworks®, Inc. (NASDAQ: RNWK) today announced the launch of Rhapsody DNA, a new technology platform that enables device makers to deliver a seamless, Rhapsody experience to consumers via a broad range of portable, mobile, and in-home devices. In conjunction, Real announced that it is teaming with SanDisk® Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) to integrate Rhapsody DNA into Sansa MP3 players this fall in the United States.

The RealNetworks/SanDisk partnership will feature groundbreaking new features embedded in a line of SanDisk’s Sansa e200 series of portable players. The collaboration will allow consumers to personalize their device and take full advantage of both Rhapsody’s subscription model and SanDisk’s flash-based MP3 player capabilities and capacity.

The e200s with the special Rhapsody DNA platform will come equipped with nearly 32 hours of pre-loaded music from hundreds of the world’s most popular artists on EMI Recorded Music, SONYBMG Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group, as well as leading independent labels.

The players also include unique capabilities, such as automatically updating with new music based on a consumer’s personal tastes and historical music preferences.

“Rhapsody DNA is an amazing innovation that puts the celestial jukebox into the consumer’s pocket,” said Rob Glaser, chairman and CEO, RealNetworks. “We can’t imagine a better launch partner than SanDisk. Together, Real and SanDisk will soon deliver great new end-to-end experiences that make it easier and more fun than ever before for consumers to discover and enjoy music.”

“We’re excited to be working with Real to be the first to offer the Rhapsody DNA on our feature-rich, high-capacity Sansa players with the acclaimed Rhapsody service,” said Eli Harari, president and chief executive officer, SanDisk. “This partnership with Real demonstrates SanDisk’s commitment to bring consumers an array of options on how they receive and enjoy their music.”

“Real has developed a unique way of introducing consumers to new music with the Sansa with Rhapsody player,” said Charles Goldstuck, President, Bertelsmann Music Group. “It’s an exciting development for music fans and we are looking forward to working with Real to make the Sansa launch a success.”

Read the complete Press Release