Seattle - RealNetworks, a provider of media delivery technology, announced on Wednesday that it has acquired Sony NetServices, which provides European mobile networks with digital music services, for $9 million.

Seattle-based RealNetworks said the purchase is part of its strategy to extend its mobile digital media services, and follows its recent acquisition of mobile entertainent publisher WiderThan.

Founded in 2000, Sony NetServices' personalized streaming music platform lets consumers download full songs or stream music to 3G phones and PCs, and has been deployed by carriers including Vodafone and TeliaSonera Finland.

Following the transaction, RealNetworks says it will count 12 mobile music partners, with a combined 196 million subscribers in 11 countries.

In connection with the acquisition, RealNetworks also said it signed a multi-year deal to support Vodafone's music services across Europe.

Related Links:
http://www.prnewswire.co.uk/cgi/news/release?id=197986

http://www.realnetworks.com

http://www.sonynetservices.com