RealNetworks sees loss on weak demand

SEATTLE: RealNetworks Inc. said on Wednesday lower revenue in the second quarter would push it back into a net loss, after weaker demand from companies for its digital media delivery software hit sales.

The maker of software that sends music and video over the Internet said it expected revenue to be between $42.5 million and $45.0 million in the second quarter ending June 30, lower than the $47.2 million reported for the first quarter. The Seattle-based company said it expects a net loss of 1 cent or 2 cents per share in the second quarter.

Analysts polled by Thomson First Call had been expecting a profit of 1 cent in the second quarter and in the first quarter RealNetworks had posted its first profit since 1999. RealNetworks said growth among consumers remained strong, and that it has 700,000 subscribers paying for premium services, up from 600,000 in April.

(C) Reuters Ltd.