RealNetworks and Palm, Inc. are partnering to enable Palm Tungsten T handhelds as digital audio players. The non-appearance of audio/MP3 player software with the Tungsten T has been a glaring omission.

RealOne Player Mobile is based on the Helix platform, delivers audio multimedia playback and storage for both RealAudio and MP3 files. Helix is a platform and a community created by RealNetworks for the standardization and expansion of digital media.

According to the companies, Tungsten T users will be able to:

-- Transfer personal audio media collections from their RealOne Player on the PC onto their Palm Tungsten T handhelds
-- View full display of current tracks playing, including song name, album and artist
-- Select and playback songs from sound device cards
-- Access content with the Tungsten T handheld's 5-way navigation
-- Run multiple tasks while listening to RealAudio or MP3 programming
-- Conserve battery power through the auto-dimming capability

Real Audio said the Helix DNA Client is a software engine that device manufacturers and software developers can use to build a multi-format media player for any device.Palm Tungsten T handheld users should be able to download the RealOne Player Mobile for free at either the RealNetworks or Palm websites by the end of the year.