BitTorrent and Orb Partner on Streaming

BitTorrent and Orb Networks have announced a partnership to bundle the BitTorrent client with the Orb PC application to push users' media to any device.

BitTorrent and Orb Networks have announced an agreement to bundle together the BItTorrent client application with the Orb PC application in an effort to create a one-step solution that enables users to download content from the Internet and push it to any other Internet connected device, including mobile phones, large-screen TVS, compatible game consoles—even jailbroken iPhones. Orb users can also use the application to organize their entire media libraries, set up playlists, organize their media, and share items with mobile users or on social networks.

“The idea of the ‘connected home’ or ‘connected consumer’ is certainly not a new one, but Orb’s innovative software has truly delivered on that promise and made it a reality,” said BitTorrent CEO Doug Walker, in a statement.

The partnership might help BitTorrent on its quest to gain legitimacy in consumers’ living rooms: although millions of people use BitTorrent to download content from the Internet, the vast majority of it is distributed in violation of copyright laws. BitTorrent has been making efforts to “go legit” through the BitTorrent Entertainment Network, offering authorized movies and other branded content for a fee. By making it easier for users to transfer content to portable devices and other systems, the company hopes to broaden its appeal to tech-savvy consumers.

New users will be able to get the bundled application from either Orb’s or BitTorrent’s site; Orb requires Windows XP or Vista.