RealNetworks acquires Sony NetServices, Vodafone music partnership

RealNetworks Inc. expanded its mobile entertainment business with the $9 million acquisition of Sony NetServices.
A joint venture between Sony DADC and Sony Europe, Sony NetServices targets carriers in eight European markets with white-label music services. The company’s technology powers on-demand music and video offerings as well as ringback tones, games and other mobile content.
RealNetworks also unveiled a multi-year partnership with Vodafone Group plc that stems from the acquisition. RealNetworks said it will support Vodafone’s music services including streaming audio and full-track downloads in Germany, Ireland, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Romania and the United Kingdom.
With the Vodafone deal, RealNetworks boasts 12 on-demand music customers with nearly 200 million subscribers in 11 countries.