Real Networks is pushing for abandoning DRM’s music formats, which some are interpreting as a sign that record labels are contemplating removing restrictions from digital downloads.

“There is a groundswell, and I say that on the basis of private conversations,” said Rob Glaser, chief executive of RealNetworks, which sells digital music protected against piracy through the Rhapsody subscription service.“It will happen between next year and five years from now, but it is more likely to be in one to two years,” he said.

Real’s music offerings have struggled to compete with Apple’s iTunes/iPod combination, and now the company faces stiffer competition with the introduction of Microsoft’s Zune platform and the company’s apparent abandonment of PlaysForSure technology.