RealNetworks has launched what it claims to be the first and only software product that eliminates the complexity of downloading, converting and transferring video files to mobile devices.

Available in Beta version beginning today at www.realplayer.com, the new RealPlayer SP is, says the digital entertainment services company, designed to take the guesswork out of the process of watching favourite video whilst mobile.

Once a video is downloaded, users select the make of mobile phone or portable media player and RealPlayer SP automatically performs the encoding and decoding so that it can be played. The system provides customers with customisation options, including the ability to add device profiles, modify the format and size of a video, and create audio-only files, helping to ensure the best mobile video experience for their specific device.

RealPlayer SP works with a device's existing media player so no additional download is required to the device. Platforms supported include the Blackberry smartphones, a range of Nokia S60 devices, Palm Pre, iPhone, iPod, iTunes, Xbox, and many others through automatic conversion and transfer to the correct device format, including h.264, Mpeg4, Windows Media, QuickTime, and RealVideo.

"Consumers have embraced mobile devices as being more than capable of providing a rich, media-intensive experience. Understanding video formats and management, however, is still far too difficult for most consumers," said Michael Gartenberg, vice president of Strategy and Analysis at Interpret llc, explaining the significance of the launch. "RealPlayer SP helps solve that problem with abundant support for multiple formats and devices, allowing consumers to move content where they choose ... allowing content to flow with them from screen-to-screen."

"RealPlayer SP makes it easy for anyone to get online video onto their mobile phones and other favourite portable devices," said Rob Glaser, CEO of RealNetworks. "Since 1995, the RealPlayer has been at the centre of people's online audio and video experience. RealPlayer SP now un-tethers that video experience so people can enjoy video on the go."

RealPlayer SP Beta is available as a free download from www.realplayer.com. Support for h.264 video conversion, DVD playback, and DVD burning is available to those customers who upgrade to RealPlayer SP Plus at a one-time cost of $39.99.