RealTimes for Quick Photo and Video Stories
RealTimes, developed by RealNetworks, is a free app that creates short video Stories from your photo and video library with minimal manual work. The main appeal is speed: it helps turn everyday media into shareable reels without needing a full editor. RealTimes also connects with the wider Real ecosystem, including RealPlayer and cloud-based features, which can simplify playback and sharing across different devices.
RealTimes scans your library and automatically builds Stories by selecting highlights from your photos and videos. Manual controls allow swapping clips in and out, which helps when the automatic picks miss the moments that matter. The result is an efficient workflow for large collections, especially when the goal is quick storytelling. The trade-off is creative control. Editing options stay basic, so users who want precise timing, stronger effects, or detailed adjustments can prefer a dedicated video editor.
Automated Media Picks That Keep Story Creation Fast
Sharing Tools That Focus on Convenience
Stories are designed for easy sharing, with options that support sending creations to friends and family without a complicated export process. RealTimes also benefits from Real’s history of handling playback compatibility, which reduces format headaches for casual sharing. However, the sharing experience depends heavily on how you prefer to distribute content. Users who want advanced publishing controls or deep integration with other apps can find the workflow limited compared with modern creator tools.
Cloud Storage Limits and Customization Choices
RealTimes includes a free tier with 2GB of cloud storage and limits Stories to 30 seconds, which keeps expectations grounded for casual use. An Auto Upload option can add 5GB by backing up media to RealPlayer Cloud. Story customization includes built-in music choices, the ability to add personal tracks, and simple narration options. The limits are clear: storage caps and short Story length can feel restrictive, and performance can vary depending on library size and system resources.
A Simple Choice for Lightweight Storytelling
RealTimes works best for users who want an automated way to turn photos and videos into short Stories without learning editing software. Strengths include quick highlight creation, straightforward sharing, and cloud-based storage options on the free tier. Limitations show up in the basic editing tools, the 30-second Story cap, and the narrow workflow for users who want more control. For fast, low-effort reels, it stays practical on Windows.
Pros
- Automated Story creation from photos and videos
- Free tier includes cloud storage for syncing and sharing
Cons
- Stories are limited to 30 seconds on the free tier
- Basic editing tools limit creative control