RealPlayer 8 Beta Released

RealNetworks has released the first beta of Real Player 8.0, its flagship software. RealNetworks has been the leader in sreaming Internet content until recently when Microsoft announced the Windows Media Player would offer better streaming capabilities with a plethora of other services including a media guide and advanced multimedia content cataloguing abilities.

Now with more competition, RealPlayer 8 hopes to quell any chance of a Windows Media Player uprising, although reviews of the latest Microsoft creation have not been the extremely positive response the software giant had hoped for.

Version 8 of the powerful software features an integrated Real.com media guide, which RealNetworks boasts allows uers to "quickly pinpoint the A/V programming you want." The Real.com radio tuner has been integrated into the latest version, along with advanced visualization options to further enjoy your music.

New RealVideo 8 technology created by RealNetworks "offers enriched video quality and smoother playback over both narrow and broadband connections." Along with enhanced video, Real Player 8 also brings streaming MP3 capabilities to the front, pushing RealPlayer even further into competition with Nullsoft's Winamp, the pioneer in streaming MP3 technology.

For users who download RealPlayer 8 beta, RealNetworks is offering an exclusive free download of iQfx 3D 2.0, 3D sound enhancing software that allows users to boost bass and add a little kick to the sound.

Visit the RealNetworks Web site for more information, and download RealPlayer 8 beta from FileForum now, and download iQfx 2.0 from the RealNetworks site.