Google, Real Networks, and Mozilla Buddy Up

Google, Real Networks, and Mozilla Corp. have made a deal to distribute the Google Toolbar and the Firefox browser with Real's media player software.

Google, Real Networks, and the Mozilla Corporation have signed onto a multi-year deal under which Real Networks will offer the Google Toolbarand Mozilla’s Firefox Web browser with Real Network’s RealPlayer media player application. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed; thearrangement builds on an existing two-year arrangement between Real Networks and Google in which Real Networks promoted the Google Toolbar.

“Real and Google share a common passion for innovation that has enhanced the Web experience,” said Rob Glaser, CEO and chairman of Real. “The Google Toolbar has been a welcome addition to Real customers because Google simplifies and enhances how they interact with the Web. We think our customers will feel the same way about the Firefox Web browser.”

Real claims to distribute over 2 million software installations a day worldwide; when users install RealPlayer, they’ll be presented an option to install either the Google Toobar or Firefox as an additional item. Real also plans to offer the Google Toolbar and Firefox to users of its Rhapsody music subscription service and RealArcade gaming platform.

“Mozilla is very pleased to partner with global leaders like Google and Real to distribute our award-winning Firefox Web browser,” said Mitchell Baker, CEO of Mozilla Corporation. “Thanks to our global community of open source contributors Firefox is making the Web browsing experience better for everyone.”

The move is the latest in recent partnerships Google has struck with major software developers to promote Google software, including last month’s deal to promote the Google Toolbar to users downloading Adobe software and a bundling agreement with computer maker Dell. The deals seem designed to boost Google’s profile prior to the launch of Windows Vista to consumers in early 2007. Windows Vista will offer a number of new Internet search and integration features; Google is hoping users will try out its current offerings before Vista becomes available, and stick with Google even after Vista ships.