RealNetworks announced the beta launch of Rhapsody.com, a Web-based version of its digital music sharing and downloading service. Any consumer can stream up to 25 on-demand songs per month, while Rhapsody subscribers can stream an unlimited amount via the new Rhapsody.com beta site. Consumers can experience Rhapsody without first downloading a PC jukebox application and thus, it is also available to Mac and Linux users.

Real also introduced its new Rhapsody Web Services initiative, which is intended to enable third party Web sites to access Rhapsody music services via the web. Web portals or other Web sites wanting to integrate music services into their Web experience can now begin to access services such as song playback and editorial content, from the Rhapsody service.

Rhapsody.com enables people to use their Web browser (Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari) to find, listen, and share up to 25 tracks from Rhapsody?s library of more than 1.4 million songs per month, for free. Consumers also get free, unlimited access to 25 commercial-free radio stations. In addition, subscribers to premium tiers of Rhapsody, including Rhapsody Unlimited ($9.99 per month) and Rhapsody To Go ($14.99 per month), can now access their accounts via the new Rhapsody.com and stream an unlimited amount of music.

Coinciding with the introduction of the Rhapsody.com beta site, Real is also releasing Rhapsody 3.1, an enhanced version of the desktop software version of Rhapsody. Rhapsody 3.1 includes several enhancements that make it even easier for users to buy and share their favorite tunes and know which songs are available for on-the-go enjoyment via Rhapsody To Go.