RealNetworks announced the integration of Sonic's Authorscript media formatting and CD/DVD burning engine into the new version of RealPlayer. Sonic Solutions and RealNetworks entered a multi-year, global licensing agreement for Sonic AuthorScript, allowing users of the Realplayer software to securely burn non-DRM protected personal content and online digital media entertainment files on CD or DVDs.

Users who have already the version of new RealPlayer can gain access to Sonic's custom DVD burning technologies simply by upgrading to the Plus version. The RealPlayer Plus allows the user to burn movies to recordable DVD media as well as to watch his personal online content on TV. The upgraded RealPlayer Plus version will cost the consumer a one-time fee of $29.99.

"Providing consumers with the control and flexibility to view, save and experience online video whenever and wherever they choose is a key focus for how Real is approaching the Internet video revolution," said Jeff Chasen, vice president of player and horizontal products at Real. "The inclusion of Sonic's powerful AuthorScript technology in the new RealPlayer is a significant value to our customers and is a key component to extending digital entertainment beyond the PC."

Sonic's association with RealNetworks will boost Sonic's market coverage and further establish their 'DVD On Demand' technologies as Dave Habiger, president and CEO commented. The utter aim of this agreement is to enable consumers to experience on their TV whatever they experience on their PC, Habiger added.

Sonic's AuthorScript and DVD On Demand technologies are licensed by companies such as Adobe, Microsoft, Nintendo, and Broadcom.