RealNetworks acquires Listen.com

More and more RealNetworks is becoming more like an online cable network aggregating content rather than a software company delivering players and servers, especially with this week’s acquisition of Listen.com. Real will add Listen.com’s Rhapsody music subscription and online radio services into its RealOne SuperPass portfolio. Real paid roughly $36 million for its newest toy, which may explain why Rob Glaser didn’t get a bonus last year – they were saving up to make a purchase.

It’s obvious where Real is going. The company has turned most of its product offerings into open source programs via its Helix Community. This way, products are still being developed, but Real doesn’t have to put much internal effort into it. Instead, it can focus on trying to make money off of services and content, like selling music through Listen.com.