The BBC reports that Real has produced software that allows users of iPod devices to play music made available by other providers. Previously iPod’s FairPlay software only allowed music provided by Apple to be played on iPods. However, Real’s Harmony program will check the music device the tune is to be played on and will change its format if necessary. The company claims that it is not infringing Apple’s IP rights in the FairPlay DRM software because it mimics that software. Apple had not comment to make on the issue.
The IPKat notes that while the law protects DRM systems, there is a lot to be said for allowing players to be compatible with downloads from other sources. He wonders whether engineering players so that they only play music from the manufacturer of the players could be seen as being anticompetitive.
More competition for apple here, here and here
UPDATE: Apple has accused Real of "hacker tactics" and says that it will be looking closely at whether Real's developments are compatible with the DMCA. It has also warned consumers that when it updates its iPods, the machines are likely to become incompatible with the Harmony program. See further here.
The IPKat notes that while the law protects DRM systems, there is a lot to be said for allowing players to be compatible with downloads from other sources. He wonders whether engineering players so that they only play music from the manufacturer of the players could be seen as being anticompetitive.
More competition for apple here, here and here
UPDATE: Apple has accused Real of "hacker tactics" and says that it will be looking closely at whether Real's developments are compatible with the DMCA. It has also warned consumers that when it updates its iPods, the machines are likely to become incompatible with the Harmony program. See further here.
IPOD COMPATIBILITY CHALLENGE
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The relevant analogy is printer cartridges or nail guns.
ReplyDeleteNothing requires the manufacturer to make a standards compliant or interoperable gun or printer - each manufacturer is free under the guise of competition to produce proprietary guns/printers or cartridges. Equally, digital music producers and players should be free to do the same thing.
However, within that freedom lies the risk of anticompetitive behaviour: abusive pricing practices, etc. Also, general principles of "interface exclusion" would allow reverse engineering and production of compatible digital music, just like real has done.
Yo, This blog is pretty neat. You should check out mine sometime. It pretty much covers in list not opt spam related stuff.
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