Streaming Media News Roundup

StreamCast Networks and Morpheus

StreamCast Networks, announced this week that it will incorporate digital rights management (DRM) software into its audio and video file-swapping Morpheus network. The network also said it plans to launch a revamped entertainment Web site, MusicCity.com, despite several lawsuits still pending from major media companies charging copyright infringement.

Utilizing DRM technology, known as the Cintoa platform, consumers can download music – such as Thomas Dolby or Grant Lee Phillips -- via Morpheus at MusicCity.com and listen to digitally wrapped music according to the rules set by the artist. Liner notes and album artwork are included with some songs.

"Our goal is to provide the best product possible to our millions of users and to work with other companies in the P2P space to help the technology thrive," Steve Griffin, chairman and CEO of StreamCast Networks, in a statement. "We hope that the entire P2P community can come together and find common ground to help in the advancement of this amazing technology."

At the end of February, millions of Morpheus users were prevented from getting into the peer-to-peer network shared with Kazaa and Grokster applications. In response, StreamCast Networks released a Morpheus Preview Edition, which, according to the company, has been downloaded nearly 80 million times and averages 4.5 million unique users per day.

Thirdspace Receives $16 Million

In funding news, Thirdspace, a developer of video server software, announced on Wednesday that it has raised $16 million in its second round of funding from VOD-services company Concurrent Computer Corp. and Alcatel.

As part of the deal, Concurrent will take a minority stake in Thirdspace and receive licenses for Thirdspace's patented technologies. Concurrent and Thirdspace will collaborate to develop and market technology that allows DSL serviceproviders to deliver TV and video services over their existing copper lines, expanding from Concurrent's products that provide video-on-demand to cable TV operators.

The partnership will integrate Concurrent’s MediaHawk video server with Thirdspace’s open video server software (formerly Oracle video server). According to the companies, with the Alcatel involvement, the combined systems will have access to the largest installed base of DSL subscribers worldwide. Alcatel is a leading supplier of DSL equipment.

"Concurrent is excited to enter into this endeavor that takes advantages of each company’s strengths," said Jack Bryant, president and CEO of Concurrent, in a statement. "Ultimately, we expect to define a new integrated end-to-end video over DSL solution."