[IP] more on "RealNetworks responds to Apple"
Begin forwarded message:
From: paul beard <paulbeard@xxxxxxx>
Date: July 30, 2004 2:47:48 PM EDT
To: David Farber <dave@xxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: more on "RealNetworks responds to Apple"
I don't get this: an iPod can play unlocked files just fine, as well as
ones licensed through the iTunes Music Store. Those, in turn, can be
unlocked with freeware tools like hymn (formerly PlayFair). What Real
offers is not more freedom, but another DRM scheme to deal with (unless
I missed something in the announcement). Users have always been able to
put files on their iPod, regardless of provenance. What happens if I
put a bunch of Rhapsody-locked files on mine and Apple renders Real's
hack ineffective?
Consumers are still free to buy other players or put DRM-free files on
their iPod: I don't see where Real offers anything but a thinly
disguised and self-serving ploy that actually offers less freedom.
--
Paul Beard
<www.paulbeard.org/>
paulbeard [at] mac.com
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