
The software is also able to handle audio CDs as well. You can even convert videos to MP3s so you can capture an audio file for that video. For instance, RealPlayer has an integrated video file converter that allows you to transform video files from one format to another that suites your system. RealPlayer is popular because it offers high stability, exceptional flexibility, and a number of features that other players simply lack.

The software makes it easy to download video clips from the web so you can watch them at any time without buffering. Novell and RealNetworks said they are also working with independent software vendors to speed up the development of streaming media application on multiple operating systems and hardware platforms.Overall Opinion: If you hate having to stream online video content, you should consider taking advantage of the powerful video playback and capture tools in RealPlayer. The application is the result of work from the Helix Community, which comprises open source developers and technology companies, and the GNOME Banshee open source music player, part of the GNU/Linux project. Helix Banshee is an open source music player for Linux that shares the same code base as RealPlayer.

In the same announcement, Novell said it is also including RealNetworks' Helix Banshee music player in Enterprise Desktop 10, released last month. The companies agreed to promote each others' services and technologies and Microsoft agreed to deliver $761 million in cash and services to RealNetworks. RealNetworks support for Microsoft comes after the former rivals struck a surprising truce in October 2005 following a lengthy antitrust battle. Microsoft is keen to drive use of its digital media formats in competition with Apple Computer and its popular iTunes program. The RealNetworks deal may benefit Microsoft by offering the software giant another outlet to promote its media formats, even though it will run on Linux, a competitor to Microsoft's operating system.
