Asymetrix Learning Systems, Inc. announced the availability of ToolBook II Instructor 7.1. Version 7.1 represents the next generation release of the online learning authoring product used by professional developers, programmers, instructional designers and trainers to create compelling, web-delivered courseware. Instructor 7.1 offers a host of new features including a DHTML runtime engine that allows authors to convert their applications to DHTML for delivery to 4.x and higher browsers; an Actions Editor, a visual programming tool that allows developers to create action sequences to add functionality that can be exported to DHTML; and AICC compliance, allowing courses created with the product to support connectivity to AICC compliant learning management systems and servers. Additionally, Instructor 7.1 now includes XML support by exporting to an intermediate XML file in the process of translating applications for delivery on the Web. Another new addition to the product, the Universal Media Player, allows a single object to have built-in support for most modern media types. This new Catalog object provides support for all of the standard media formats (AVI, WAV, MIDI) and the media formats supported by the new Windows Media Player (Windows streaming media, MPEG video, QuickTime video, MP3 audio, and others). The RealNetworks RealPlayer G2 (all RealMedia formats, SMIL), the Macromedia Flash Player, and other media file formats are also supported in this new release. ToolBook II Instructor 7.1 is immediately available and is priced at $2,495 for first-time purchases or at an upgrade price for Instructor 6.5 customers of $695 if purchased before October 31, 1999 ($895 after this date). Owners of versions prior to 6.5 may upgrade for $895 as well. www.asymetrix.com