realplayer

[BUDDY HOLLY]

I want to listen to some programmes on Radio Two, To do this I need Realplayer, I understand that It used to be laced with spyware, Is this correct? If so, does it still have spyware and/or adware?
Regards

[Zen]

Only download it via the BBC website.

Apparently, �The BBC made a unique deal with Real Networks which disposes of their spyware tactics. Basically, if a user clicks on a link to download Real Player from a BBC website, the referrer script sends them to a page where they can download an expiry-free, spyware-free and nuicance-free version of the player. It�s because the BBC have such a stringent public service remit, that it was offensive to charge people a license fee for BBC content, then make them pay all over again for the facility to view/listen to it.�

[vehelpfulguy]

Make sure you do download the free one (the 'Basic' one).

Real player try very hard to make you take a "trial" version which then turns into a chargable one.

Also check the install windows carefully. Some of the options say things like "do you want to install some Games" or "Do you want to install the so and so toolbar"

I use the free one and have never had any problems.

[vehelpfulguy]

One other thing.

Make sure you do actually need to the Real Player.

Some BBC sites allow you to listen via the BBC Radio Player, or Windows Media Player.

Check the page carefully and you may well find an option to listen on something else rather than Real Player.

I listen to a lot on BBC and rarely if ever have to use Real player.

[vehelpfulguy]

Whoops, just noticed the BBC Radio Player uses Real Player under the covers.

My answer is still true for Windows Media player, some BBC sites use that.

[fo3nix]

You could always use real alternative, which works just as well for listening to realplayer stuff, and doesn't come with the ugly advertising stuff:
http://www.free-codecs.com/download/Real_Alter native.htm