RealNetworks on Thursday introduced a new, forthcoming version of RealPlayer, its video media playback software for Mac and PCs. The new version will debut for the PC in June and later this year for the Mac.
The new RealPlayer’s standout new feature is the ability to download online videos from Web sites using a “Download this video” button. You can download it to your computer, burn it to DVD and CD, and share links to the online source with friends. RealNetworks said the new feature works with QuickTime, Flash, Windows Media and Real files. The new RealPlaer software lets you download multiple videos simultaneously, and will let you watch mid-downloading.
RealNetworks cautions that the new download and record feature will only work with video that is not protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM) systems.
Other new features in this release include an improved interface, a streamlined installation and faster video playback.
The June release of the Windows version will be a public beta; RealNetworks anticipates the Mac release later this year but declined to offer a specific timeframe. The company also noted plans to produce a future version of RealPlayer that will enable users to transfer online video content to portable media devices.