more on "RealNetworks responds to Apple"

[David Farber <dave () farber net>]

Begin forwarded message:

From: paul beard <paulbeard () mac com>
Date: July 30, 2004 2:47:48 PM EDT
To: David Farber <dave () farber net>
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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