Apple to open up FairPlay to third parties?

Apple plans to open up the FairPlay DRM standard used on the iTunes Store, according to claims. Sources tell Tech.co.uk that Apple will make two announcements this week: first that protected AAC files will be streamable via USB, and second that third-party "Made for iPod" manufacturers will have the option of licensing Fairplay for their own use. The result should be more hardware with expanded functionality, such as digital output obtained directly from iTunes, as well as built-in displays of previously protected track information, such as album artwork. Tech speculates that the move could be intended to keep Made for iPod companies onboard, with the appeal of less restrctive players like the Microsoft Zune becoming stronger.