Web sites, for example, could use the service to broadcast audio and video clips accompanying a text story, thus offering a package of video and more in-depth information. The video doesn't look as good as broadcast television. People's movements look jerky because current technology can't move video as quickly as television. To see the Internet broadcasts, home computer users would use Progressive software, which the company says is available free on the Internet. They said no special software is needed to hear the radio broadcasts.
Companies can also run ads with the service.
The Internet broadcasting feature also is available to companies that lease Internet capacity from MCI, such as Erol's, Pierson said. MCI also is considering adding the feature to the company's video conferencing services, she said. Neither company would disclose investments or expected revenues from the venture. Microsoft Corp. in July bought a minority interest in Progressive Networks and said it would use the company's broadcasting technologies in Microsoft products such as software that lets people browse the Internet. Copyright 1997 The Associated Press.