Since RealNetworks is all for "compatibility" and getting their stuff to play on the iPod, when do they plan to offer support for Macintosh users in the Rhapsody music store?
Since RealNetworks objects to Apple constraining use of their proprietary formats, when does RealNetworks plan to set an example by opening up all of their file formats for free use and modification by other competing companies?
I can't moderate the parent any higher, since it's already at 5. But folks, this is the only question on the page that's actually worth asking.
Real is one of the few companies left that controls a common file format and doesn't also publish an OS. And they're everywhere, from Amazon to NPR. Spyware? DRM? Distractions. This is the ball game. Nothing else matters.
I always thought if Realnetworks wasn't more "evil" (aggressive) than Microsoft, all those Linux users would pay $something to Mandrake to watch/hear DOMINATING Wmedia format.
Mplayer? Couple of "eula hacking", developers go to jail. Why not now? Since its STILL a threat to Microsoft tin sound wmedia, the realplayer.
As OSX user I am not "saved" too, ask any mac user if he/she can watch scripted wmedia in Microsoft IE for mac even!
Exactly. Why the dichotomy? And why the back tracking? Why say you think the iPod isn't going to be a success, then all of a sudden want part of it's action?
Interesting addition to the question, but unfortunately it is based on a presumption that is not technically correct. Both Apple and Real use the same compression format (MPEG AAC) in their music stores. This is not a proprietary format. It is a standard. It can be decoded with a cheap ASIC, which is why it is a popular choice for portable digital music devices.
I believe what RealNetworks objects to is that Apple is not licensing their "fairplay" DRM technology to allow other legal music download stores (such as Real's) to offer their product to iPod owners.
The important question here is: "Why can't all of the technology companies unify under one common, open DRM solution so every device works with every music store and vice versa?" However, this question is probably better posed to Steve Jobs and Bill Gates than to Rob Glaser. When are those guys going to do a slashdot interview?
The reason that nobody can unite behind a single DRM technology is that certain technology companies would either like to own the music download and device business completely (Apple), or they would like their DRM solution to become the defacto standard so they can become a toll collector on all digital music transactions (Microsoft). Personally, I don't like either of those possibilities, and I'm glad to see a company putting a wrench in those plans, even if it's RealNetworks.
Interesting addition to the question, but unfortunately it is based on a presumption that is not technically correct. Both Apple and Real use the same compression format (MPEG AAC) in their music stores. This is not a proprietary format.
I'm aware of that, but what is a format, really? By adding the DRM, you've changed the way the file works- or at least the routine by which it's accessed. I think your objection is a bit of a red herring, though technically correct.
The important question here is: "Why can't all of the technology companies unify under one common, open DRM solution so every device works with every music store and vice versa?"......I'm glad to see a company putting a wrench in those plans, even if it's RealNetworks
Oh, I pray to god they don't. I'd rather the various companies remain deadlocked. If they come to a common DRM, it's very unlikely to be open, and in any event, it's likely to make DRM an accepted societal norm. Far better that these companies continue to fight it out publicly, crippling consumer goods as they go, drawing attention to the problems inherent in the idea of DRM.
I don't really think a common DRM scheme is in the cards as of yet. CSS was a good example with DVD protection. With one ubiquitous DRM format, you're left with the "if one person cracks it, everything's cracked" issue.
Although, I do feel that everyone should follow suit in that music players should support a plethora of DRM formats, and the format should be open to player manufacturers that sign a similar contract to that of DVD's CSS. That way, everyone wins, and inovation is encouraged for stronger form
1. Why do you really have so little faith in your product? If you offered a superior player and service Mac users would switch. Your player already supports songs from iTunes Music Store so that would ease the transition.
2. Is it really impossible to make drm capable quicktime components? Because with Real component your songs would play in iTunes.
Our business is run on trust. We trust you will pay in advance.
Apple Support (Score:5, Interesting)
Re:Apple Support (Score:5, Insightful)
Since RealNetworks objects to Apple constraining use of their proprietary formats, when does RealNetworks plan to set an example by opening up all of their file formats for free use and modification by other competing companies?
Yes, ASK THIS (Score:5, Interesting)
Real is one of the few companies left that controls a common file format and doesn't also publish an OS. And they're everywhere, from Amazon to NPR. Spyware? DRM? Distractions. This is the ball game. Nothing else matters.
Re:Yes, ASK THIS (Score:1)
Mplayer? Couple of "eula hacking", developers go to jail. Why not now? Since its STILL a threat to Microsoft tin sound wmedia, the realplayer.
As OSX user I am not "saved" too, ask any mac user if he/she can watch scripted wmedia in Microsoft IE for mac even!
Re:Apple Support (Score:3, Insightful)
Re:Apple Support (Score:5, Insightful)
Interesting addition to the question, but unfortunately it is based on a presumption that is not technically correct. Both Apple and Real use the same compression format (MPEG AAC) in their music stores. This is not a proprietary format. It is a standard. It can be decoded with a cheap ASIC, which is why it is a popular choice for portable digital music devices.
I believe what RealNetworks objects to is that Apple is not licensing their "fairplay" DRM technology to allow other legal music download stores (such as Real's) to offer their product to iPod owners.
The important question here is: "Why can't all of the technology companies unify under one common, open DRM solution so every device works with every music store and vice versa?" However, this question is probably better posed to Steve Jobs and Bill Gates than to Rob Glaser. When are those guys going to do a slashdot interview?
The reason that nobody can unite behind a single DRM technology is that certain technology companies would either like to own the music download and device business completely (Apple), or they would like their DRM solution to become the defacto standard so they can become a toll collector on all digital music transactions (Microsoft). Personally, I don't like either of those possibilities, and I'm glad to see a company putting a wrench in those plans, even if it's RealNetworks.
Re:Apple Support (Score:5, Insightful)
I'm aware of that, but what is a format, really? By adding the DRM, you've changed the way the file works- or at least the routine by which it's accessed. I think your objection is a bit of a red herring, though technically correct.
The important question here is: "Why can't all of the technology companies unify under one common, open DRM solution so every device works with every music store and vice versa?"......I'm glad to see a company putting a wrench in those plans, even if it's RealNetworks
Oh, I pray to god they don't. I'd rather the various companies remain deadlocked. If they come to a common DRM, it's very unlikely to be open, and in any event, it's likely to make DRM an accepted societal norm. Far better that these companies continue to fight it out publicly, crippling consumer goods as they go, drawing attention to the problems inherent in the idea of DRM.
Re:Apple Support (Score:3, Interesting)
Although, I do feel that everyone should follow suit in that music players should support a plethora of DRM formats, and the format should be open to player manufacturers that sign a similar contract to that of DVD's CSS. That way, everyone wins, and inovation is encouraged for stronger form
Re:Apple Support (Score:3, Insightful)
1. Why do you really have so little faith in your product? If you offered a superior player and service Mac users would switch. Your player already supports songs from iTunes Music Store so that would ease the transition.
2. Is it really impossible to make drm capable quicktime components? Because with Real component your songs would play in iTunes.