Sharman Networks Ltd., the Australian group which distributes the KaZaA desktop, began making the second version of its software available today, with a multinational flair.

The new "v2" software, available through software download portals throughout the Internet or through KaZaA.com, adds several new features, including unlimited bitrates, skins, shared playlists, and a "participation model" which rewards frequent file-sharing with priority downloading. KaZaA will also now be downloadable in either French, Spanish, or German language versions, according to the company.

KaZaA has also added a "showcase" section, offering links from Kazaa Media Desktop to premium rights managed content such as the latest music, video and software from Altnet," the controversial software at the heart of KaZaA. In this version, however, Altnet serves as a DRM engine, funneling music from cornerband.com, which promotes RIAA-approved content from upcoming bands, according to a KaZaA spokeswoman.

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