Microsoft Software for Streaming Media

Microsoft Corp. today plans to unveil its Digital Broadcast Manager, a software program that aims to unlock the potential of e-commerce for streaming media companies, company officials said. Based on Windows Media technology, the new software package is designed to make it easier for Web companies to track, manage and sell their streamed pay-per-view video events, audio downloads and Webcasts over the Internet, said David Fester, a Microsoft executive.

The Digital Broadcast Manager replaces the complex and lengthy software customization that faces entertainment and content companies if they want to turn their streamed video and audio programs into a viable e-commerce business, officials said. The program will allow companies to convert digital media content into secure products such as live pay-per-view concerts, streamed movies on demand and digital music sales.

Microsoft is announcing Digital Broadcast Manager at the Streaming Media East conference that begins today in New York. The software program will sell for $495.