RealPlayer SP lets you watch internet video offline

Who says you have to be connected?

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24 June 2009 17:29 GMT / By Stuart Miles

RealNetworks, the company behind the RealPlayer, has announced a new software package that will allow users to convert and transfer video from the web directly onto portable devices to view offline.

Called Realplayer SP (the SP stands for Social and Portable) the new PC software includes support for most of the Blackberry smartphones, a range of Nokia S60 devices, the Palm Pre, Apple's iPhone and iPod, and Microsoft's Xbox 360 with the promise of new devices being added on a frequent basis.

Real Networks told Pocket-lint that it is hoping the new software will appeal to YouTube users not keen on running up expensive access costs on their mobile phone.

Once a video is downloaded, users will be prompted with the option to select the make of their mobile phone, portable media player, or games system from the menu - and RealPlayer SP automatically does the rest. The same videos can be shared with friends through Twitter, Facebook, or email with one extra click according to the company.

A free version of the software is available at RealPlayer with an upgrade option that adds support for H.264 video conversion, DVD playback, and DVD burning. That version will cost of $39.99 in the US and £24.99 in the UK.

Although currently not available for the Mac, the company has promised an Apple-friendly version by the end of the year.