iRiver to Produce Rhapsody-Enabled Clix

RealNetworks has found another manufacturing partner to distribute devices that are compatible with its Rhapsody service, announcing Monday that iRiver would produce a new clix Rhapsody model.

The second-generation of the innovative device would support Rhapsody DNA, Real's own digital rights management solution. iRiver's previous clix model was a Windows Media-based device.

While this device would also support WMA, the focus would be on its Rhapsody integration. Reigncom, the manufacturer of the iRiver devices, said those who purchased a second-generation clix before the announcement would be able to add the functionality through a firmware update.

The new clix features "direct-click" navigation, a 2.2-inch OLED screen, FM radio, support for a variety of formats, and SRS WOW technology. A 4GB model is available for $189.99 USD.

"We are excited to be launching the new clix Rhapsody," said Sean Kim, CEO of Reigncom. "With Rhapsody DNA technologies, we are able to introduce a number of new features to enhance the consumer's digital music experience by providing intuitive ways to discover and enjoy new music directly on the device."

With Microsoft moving away from PlaysForSure due to the launch of the Zune, Real now sees an opportunity to promote its DNA DRM platform. So far, it has only partnered with SanDisk on the Sansa e200R, but the company hopes to sign further deals.

Real's desktop Rhapsody service is the largest subscription, all-you-can-eat music offering, with nearly 2.7 million subscribers, according to the company.