Real Networks has updated the Windows version of its multimedia player, RealPlayer, to version 15. Available in both free and function-enhanced Plus editions, RealPlayer provides a one-stop shop for organizing, sharing and accessing media content, both online and offline.
RealPlayer 15 adds two new features: the ability to instantly access any video posted to Facebook, and a Private Mode that allows you to download and save video to a password-protected secure location. It’s a less radical build than version 14, which introduced social-networking tools alongside a host of other improvements, including a revamped user interface.
Facebook content is accessible by selecting Facebook Videos from the left-hand pane: log into your Facebook account and you’ll be able to browse all the video posted by friends and others into your news feed without being distracted by all the other Facebook content.
Videos can be viewed within RealPlayer itself, or you can comment or like individual videos by clicking the link under the video itself, which opens a new pop-up window for you to provide feedback.
Private Mode is enabled by clicking the RealPlayer button and choosing the feature from the dropdown menu. Enter a PIN (four to 16 digits) and all downloaded videos will be placed in a hidden folder, while individual videos can also be hidden in the RealPlayer library itself. Private Mode also automatically clears your clip history when you’re finished, wiping all trace of your browsing history.
The Plus Edition, which costs $40, improves download, conversion and sync performance, plus supports the transfer of HD video to DVD to watch on TV (using Blu-ray players). Plus users are also entitled to support.
RealPlayer 15 is available now as a free download for PCs running Windows XP SP3 or later. Also available is RealPlayer SP for Mac 12.0, which runs on OS X 10.4.11 (Tiger) or later. A Linux build can also be downloaded from the Real.com website.