South China Morning Post. Netshow(non Cube related)........................
scmp.com
TuesdayÿÿJuly 22ÿÿ1997
Net video tie-up looms for big two
BLOOMBERG in Seattle
Microsoft Corp and Progressive Networks are set to launch a joint initiative on technology that broadcasts video over the Internet.
Microsoft was expected to announce that it would work more closely with Progressive, and include Progressive's technology in Microsoft's Internet browsing software, said Mark Hardie, an analyst at Forrester Research.
Closely held Progressive, based in Seattle, is considered the leader in developing technology used to send video and audio over the Internet.
Microsoft has been developing its own technology, called NetShow, although industry sources said it was not as sophisticated as Progressive's product.
By working with Progressive more closely, Microsoft's Internet software would be able to send better-quality video, a step towards its goal of combining TV and computers, and a way of competing with Netscape Communications.
"Microsoft wants to provide the best-quality, easiest solutions," Mr Hardie said.
Microsoft and Progressive officials would not comment on their plans.
Progressive already works with distribution companies including At Home and WebTV Networks, which Microsoft in April agreed to buy for US$425 million. |
