RealNetworks music store to use new DRM format
updated 03:55 am EST, Tue January 6, 2004
RealNeworks DRM format
RealNetworks will launch a , according to CNET News.com. "Sources said the new store will be based on the Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) format--as are the songs in Apple's rival service--but wrapped in RealNetworks' own Helix digital rights management technology. That will limit the number of digital devices the songs can be played on, because most portable music device makers support only MP3 and Microsoft technology. Analysts, however, said the market is potentially still young enough to support the addition of RealNetworks' offering.... Apple's iPod will not be able to play Helix-wrapped songs unless Apple licenses that technology."
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jul 2001
two-digit iq?
what a bunch of dorks!
thanks to their use of another DRM system nobody's mp3 player will be able to play their content even though the players would (at least in some cases) be able to play the aac data.
and even if some mp3 player starts supporting their DRM scheme, they have chosen to not make their music playable on the number one mp3 player, namely the ipod.
that's like selling gas that will only work in a delorian, but not in a ford or gm or daimler-chrysler.
what a bunch of losers.
but, hey, it's good for apple and itms because it's one competitor less to fear. :)