With the download rates of KaZaa dropping over the past number of months in the US, Sharman networks are trying another method of boosting its usage by making its software available in five new languages (German, French, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese). This covers over 30 countries and a potential of over a billion users. Each language is available as a separate software package; all of which are available at KaZaa's main website.
Other features new in Kazaa v.2.6.3 include localised content in the consumer's native language where available, improved tab-based features, up to 24 simultaneous searches and Magnet Links. A Magnet Link works similar to an eDonkey link where the download is performed through KaZaa, thus allowing a content provider to distribute its content more efficiently by allowing its users to share it.
As KaZaa is now distributed in 6 separate packages (one per language), they can no longer rely on Download.com as a means of determining how many downloads have taken place. KaZaa's different language packages are now available from Kazaa.com directly. They expect to release their premium 'Kazaa Plus' in multiple languages within three months.
|
"This announcement clearly demonstrates Sharman's commitment to build on its position as the developer and publisher of the world's most popular file-sharing application by localizing Kazaa and growing into new territories," said Nikki Hemming, CEO of Sharman Networks. Italian and Portuguese versions have been launched for the first time, reaching an estimated additional 200 million potential consumers across the globe. Substantial opportunities for peer-to-peer technology and sales and marketing of both global and local licensed content exists in both of these territories, and Sharman looks forward to significant growth in the next 12 months. Some new features in Kazaa v2.6.3 include:
|
It looks like Sharman networks is trying their best to boost its software usage, especially since its software download rates have fell quite a bit over the past few months. Legal issues may not be the only reason that is putting users off its software, since quite a number of users are getting well aware of Adware issues also. For example two weeks ago Ad-aware replaced Kazaa's number one spot on Download.com. About a year ago, ad/spyware removal tools were just entering the charts. It will be interesting to see if a multilingual versions of KaZaa-Lite become available.
Feel free to discuss and read more about KaZaa on our Music Downloads, P2P & Legal Issues Forum .
Source: Music Industry News Network
