Microsoft, Nokia join on DRM-laced sharing software
updated 04:10 pm EDT, Mon August 6, 2007
Microsoft, Nokia PlayReady
Microsoft and Nokia have announced a collboration on new software, used to transfer media from mobile phones to computers and media players, according to the news agency Newsfactor. Called "PlayReady," the software will come into release next year, when it will be pre-installed on Nokia phones running the S40 and S60 platforms. The traditional problem with songs and videos purchased on cellphones is that they are often limited to those devices, in spite of their cost and the roaming nature of their desktop companions. PlayReady should make it possible to finally copy the content elsewhere, a move that may help phone carriers by increasing the perceived value of download services.
The practicality of this may be limited however, as PlayReady will come with DRM measures to block unauthorized copying. In other protected applications by Microsoft, such as Windows Media Center, this has resulted in entire file formats being restricted, such as DivX or XviD. Codecs currently planned for support include AAC, Windows Media and H.264.
Future collaborations between Microsoft and Nokia may involve mobile file rentals, as well as better offline access.
