MTV Deal Aims for Secure Downloads

Viacom Inc.’s MTV Networks said Tuesday that music buyers logging onto its various Web sites will be able to securely download music under an agreement with RioPort Inc., a unit of Diamond Multimedia Systems Inc., the maker of the MP3 music player.

Under the deal, MTV Networks Online will provide Web content and promotional support, and get an equity stake in RioPort and part of the revenue from selling digitally distributed music, expected to be available in this year’s fourth quarter.

RioPort will provide software to manage the music and take care of licensing, put together content and receive Web-based promotion across all of MTV Networks’ online properties.