Oh, if only it were this easy to topple a giant.
RealNetworks
Oh, they'll talk a big game. In launching its new "Music Without Limits" initiative Monday morning, RealNetworks said it will enhance its Rhapsody music subscription service by offering the a la carte sale of MP3 singles and albums. The problem? Napster
This doesn't mean that RealNetworks is following warm footsteps to nowhere. The company is offering full-track playback through social music sites, powering the online music store of Verizon Wireless' V Cast, and offering free digital albums to the next 100,000 warm bodies who register with Rhapsody's music store.
Nice try, kid. Better luck next niche.
Apple has delivered more than 5 billion digital downloads since the inception of iTunes. Proven online retailers like Amazon.com
This doesn't mean RealNetworks needs to wake up or throw its hat into hardware. It just needs to go in with realistic expectations. Clever press releases, viral gimmickry, and a massive giveaway will only take you so far.
Other warm footsteps to follow: