Three bits of RealNewz this week. First up is the third major distribution deal in four weeks for RealNetworks as it will now be bundled with Netscape Communicator 4.5. Following recent deals with AOL and IBM [see below] and the RealFallout between Misters Glazier and Misters Gates, this is a decisive "up your's" to all those at Micro$oft.

The interesting connection is with IBM's Lotus Development division who, as my flat-mate tells me, will allow full integration of RealMedia files with existing Notes databases for intrarchive/internet broadcasting.

The final word was heard on a trip into the RealHQ here in London, where I was assured we can expect the full Gold version of the G2 products [players and servers] by December 98. After many problems with the first beta issue and the recent release of the full beta 2 version, this golden nugget should make things even more interesting in the land of streaming media.

For those that care :  RealNetwork's stock jumped $6.38, nearly 24 percent, to trade at $33.38 by mid-morning on the Nasdaq after the Netscape announcement.

http://www.real.com/