RealNetworks Surrenders, Hollywood Loses

RealNetworks has decided to resolve the legal challenges brought against it by Hollywood, and permanently discontinue its RealDVD software. As part of the settlement, RealNetworks will also pay $4.5 million in legal fees to the parties that brought the lawsuit against the company including six Hollywood studios, Viacom and the DVD Copy control association. RealNetworks will also reimburse the 2700 customers who purchased the RealDVD software since its launch in 2008. The settlement ends a legal battle of almost 17 months that started just one day after RealNetworks made RealDVD available for sale in late 2008.