Possible un-DRM'd HD-DVD and BluRay

[setarip_old]

In the "News" sub-forum, an article is linked to at:

http://forum.doom9.org/showthread.php?p=1007042#post1007042

The article refers to the possible sale of copyable (limited number of backup copies) HD-DVDs and BluRay DVDs.

However, as profit motive is always at the forefront, the article includes this statement:The idea is that the content companies could charge a premium according to how many copies are allowed, Ayers said.

[Doom9]

Yeah right.. keep in mind that managed copy isn't even mandatory for Blu-ray. I can just imagine the day the movie industry surprises me with the option to make a DVD quality copy for the price the DVD disc sells in stores (which is a good thing for the studios.. they'd get a whole lot more money than from the disc sold in stores). Now factor in DRM crazed studios like Fox who rather invest resources into adding additional DRM layers and even stopped releasing any discs until that DRM layer is finalized.

[Taktaal]

That doesn't sound like DRM-free discs, more like they're going to have a form of DRM that allows limited copies.

Of course the copying will only work with licensed software, the copies won't be copyable and the movies still won't play on open source movie player.

[diogen]

The (mandatory) managed copy of hidef disks is an on/off topic on AVS for _years_.
It seems to depend on the AACS spec (that hasn't been finalized yet), even though the copy on the hard drive
(if ever allowed) won't have AACS (but will be wrapped into another "approved" by AACS LA DRM).
I think Amir claimed Windows DRM has such stamp of approval.

This latest announcement could mean that the final AACS spec is close.

Diogen.

[melakai]

That doesn't sound like DRM-free discs, more like they're going to have a form of DRM that allows limited copies.

Of course the copying will only work with licensed software, the copies won't be copyable and the movies still won't play on open source movie player.

Very true, but 1 > 0. If they give me a free transfer to another media (all other things equal), I'll take it.

Let's also not forget, if this happens, it means more attackable surface area for those wishing to un-DRM'ing the content. For that, I'm excited.