Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Google patent application could mean melody-matching for YouTube]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/google-melody-identification-patent-application/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/google-melody-identification-patent-application/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/google-melody-identification-patent-application/#comments Image

YouTube has become a treasure trove for rare live editions, outtakes and covers of popular songs -- the latter making stars out of acts like Pomplamoose. However, Google and the recording industry don't feel the same way, but the site's famous content filtering system can only handle exact matches of recorded songs -- so that 14-year-old moppet's cover version of Born this Way remains unfiltered. That could change should a patent application made available today result in a workable product. It describes a Melody Identification system that'll pluck out a "melody fingerprint" from any uploaded file and then determine the appropriate "rights management" to apply -- which sounds ominous. The patents haven't been granted and nowhere in the text of either document does it reveal how the company plans to deal with songs that sound very, very similar, but we can't imagine what'll be left if the worst comes to pass: lots of mute cat videos, probably.

Update: Josh Rice in comments pointed out that Pomplamoose actually buys the rights to its covers. That's the nicest form of prior art there is.

Google patent application could mean melody-matching for YouTube originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 May 2012 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Content FilteringContentFilteringDRMGoogleMusicMusic PublishersMusicPublishersOnline AudioOnline MusicOnlineAudioOnlineMusicPatentPatent ApplicationPatentApplicationYouTubeYouTube Content FilterYouTube FilterYoutubeContentFilterYoutubeFilterThu, 17 May 2012 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod owners notified of RealNetworks-related lawsuit's class action status, given chance to cash in (updated: not Real)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/ipod-owners-notified-of-realnetworks-lawsuit-class-action/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/ipod-owners-notified-of-realnetworks-lawsuit-class-action/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/ipod-owners-notified-of-realnetworks-lawsuit-class-action/#comments iPod nano thumbs up

Remember the 2005 lawsuit over Apple's effort to keep RealNetworks' Harmony DRM off of the iPod, calling the countermeasures an abuse that locked customers into Apple's FairPlay copy protection and the iTunes Store? You're forgiven if you don't -- the complaint was filed in 2005. Even with iTunes having gone primarily DRM-free over three years ago, though, owners of iPods bought between September 12th, 2006 and March 31st, 2009 are just now getting notices that they qualify for a slice of any damages if they register and Rhapsody's former owner the class action group wins in court. Of course, there's no guarantee that RealNetworks former Rhapsody users will win and get you music money to feed your iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano or iPod touch, but unless you're planning to sue Apple yourself, there's no penalty for a legitimate claim.

Update: RealNetworks has chipped in to let us know that it's "not involved in any way" with the lawsuit, which is actually an independent complaint centered around the Rhapsody users themselves. RealNetworks hasn't embroiled itself in a legal fight with Apple to date.

iPod owners notified of RealNetworks-related lawsuit's class action status, given chance to cash in (updated: not Real) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 May 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antitrustantitrust lawsuitAntitrustLawsuitAppleaudioclass actionclass action lawsuitClassActionClassActionLawsuitcopy protectionCopyProtectionDRMDRM-freefairplayFairPlay DRMFairplayDrmharmonyharmony drmHarmonyDrmiPodipod classicipod nanoipod touchIpodClassicIpodNanoIpodTouchiTunesitunes music storeitunes storeItunesMusicStoreItunesStorelawsuitlawsuitsmusicRealNetworksrhapsodyThu, 10 May 2012 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Sci-fi publisher announces Tor and Forge will go DRM-free with all e-book titles]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/tor-books-goes-drm-free/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/tor-books-goes-drm-free/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/tor-books-goes-drm-free/#comments Sci-fi publisher announces Tor and Forge to go DRM-free with all e-book titles

Science fiction is often said to foresee the future, and today, that news couldn't ring more true. Tom Doherty Associates, a subsidiary of Macmillan and publisher of popular sci-fi and fantasy brands such as Tor and Forge, today announced that as of early July, all of its current e-books will be distributed without DRM restrictions. The company's president, Tom Doherty, revealed the shift as a long-time request of both its readers and authors -- which unsurprisingly, are a rather tech-savvy bunch. In addition to the move affecting all of Doherty's current sales channels, the move will allow the publisher to seek out independent e-book dealers that sell only DRM-free titles. While the move is unlikely to extend to the rest of Macmillan's properties anytime soon, just leave it to the sci-fi community to show others the way forward. Perhaps the future isn't gonna be so scary after all.

Sci-fi publisher announces Tor and Forge will go DRM-free with all e-book titles originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drmdrm-freee booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readere-readersforgeforge booksForgeBooksmacmillansci-fiscience fictionScienceFictiontom dohertytom doherty associatesTomDohertyTomDohertyAssociatestortor booksTorBooksWed, 25 Apr 2012 06:48:00 EST<![CDATA[What crisis? Sony Music buys EMI's back catalogue for $2.2 billion]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/sony-music-buys-emi-publishing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/sony-music-buys-emi-publishing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/sony-music-buys-emi-publishing/#comments Image

While its parent company goes through a dramatic reinvention, Sony Music's scraped together $2.2 billion to lead a consortium that's just bought EMI's music publishing business. While it'll sell off the three Virgin and Famous Music labels to avoid competition concerns, the company will gain access to three million songs from artists like Frank Sinatra, Jay-Z and Adele. It won't affect the day-to-day running of EMI's record label, which is a separate entity, but it will make Sony the biggest music publisher in the world. It's hard not to envisage a future in which the company's influence in the way we buy and listen to music becomes even greater -- especially given that EMI led the charge in abandoning DRM all those years ago.

What crisis? Sony Music buys EMI's back catalogue for $2.2 billion originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AntitrustCompetitionDRMEMIEmi Music PublishingEmiMusicPublishingEUFamous MusicFamousMusicMusicOnline MusicOnlineMusicPublisherPurchaseSonySony MusicSonyMusicVirgin EuropeVirgin MusicVirgin UKVirgin USVirginEuropeVirginMusicVirginUkVirginUsThu, 19 Apr 2012 13:41:00 EST<![CDATA[TWC TV Android app finally updated with live TV streaming]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/twc-tv-android-app-finally-updated-with-live-tv-streaming/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/twc-tv-android-app-finally-updated-with-live-tv-streaming/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/twc-tv-android-app-finally-updated-with-live-tv-streaming/#comments TWC TV Android app finally updated with live TV streaming

Time Warner Cable users who prefer Android to iOS can finally enjoy live TV streaming on their Ice Cream Sandwich-enabled tablets and phones. As we learned when it debuted, DRM requirements are making live TV streaming an Android 4.0-only (devices that have been rooted however, are not invited) affair, but at least it's here. Subscribers can snag TWC TV 2.0 from Google Play at the link below, although they are encouraged to try uninstalling if they experience any glitches after upgrading. There's a blog post linked below with more details, but we're pretty sure a TV screen you can take to the can with you explains itself.

TWC TV Android app finally updated with live TV streaming originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 4.0Android4.0appdrmhdpostcrossIce Cream SandwichIceCreamSandwichmobilepostcrosstime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCabletwc tvTwcTvTue, 17 Apr 2012 15:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Time Warner Cable app for Android tablets with live streaming is (still) right around the corner]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/twc-tv-android-live-streaming-soon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/twc-tv-android-live-streaming-soon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/twc-tv-android-live-streaming-soon/#comments ImageTo be fair, when we heard that Time Warner Cable's TWC TV app for Android tablets might add live TV streaming by the end of March it was described as a "very loose" projection, so it's not much of a surprise we're still waiting for it now, in April. It is still coming however, and a new post is up on the blog teasing the above image of the app in action and promising to make the feature available in the next few weeks, certainly by Memorial day. we should also note, it's for Ice Cream Sandwich loaded tablets only -- they have the required "security and stability" (read: DRM) necessary. Also noted is that developing a live video streaming app for iOS was easier simply because of the limited number of manufacturer, OS and hardware combinations, which mirrors what we heard previously from Netflix. Still, it's on the way, so if you're looking to use your slate as an extra TV screen in the home, you should look next to your manufacturer to make sure it's been updated with ICS.

Time Warner Cable app for Android tablets with live streaming is (still) right around the corner originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 4.0Android4.0appcable tvCableTvdrmhdpostcrossice cream sandwichIceCreamSandwichicslive streaminglive tv streamingLiveStreamingLiveTvStreamingminipostpay tvPayTvtablettime warner cableTimeWarnerCabletwcable tvTwcableTvThu, 05 Apr 2012 18:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Kaleidescape DVD servers granted a temporary stay]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/kaleidescape-dvd-servers-granted-a-temporary-stay/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/kaleidescape-dvd-servers-granted-a-temporary-stay/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/kaleidescape-dvd-servers-granted-a-temporary-stay/#commentsThings have been looking bleak for Kaleidescape's DVD servers since a Judge ruled against them on appeal, and earlier this month issued an injunction that was to have taken effect on April 8th. We say was because CEO Michael Malcolm is now saying the California 6th District Court of Appeal has issued a temporary stay of that injunction. The court is still deciding whether or not to stay the injunction during the entire process, a decision Malcolm says could affect whether or not the company survives or has to lay people off. While the current case does not affect Kaleidescape's tethered Blu-ray servers, it's tiring to hear about all this from the DVD CCA over a DRM scheme that was cracked wide open so long ago, and a case that had appeared to be over.

Kaleidescape DVD servers granted a temporary stay originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 01:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appealcssdrmdvddvd ccadvd serverDvdCcaDvdServerhdpostminiinjunctionKaleidescapelawsuitstayMon, 02 Apr 2012 01:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Fox, Warner, SanDisk and Western Digital's Project Phenix: promotes DRM, misspelling]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/project-phenix-drm/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/project-phenix-drm/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/project-phenix-drm/#comments
Studios Fox and Warner Bros. have teamed up with SanDisk and Western Digital to create "Project Phenix." Beneath the orthographically offensive name, it's pitched as DRM that'll permit you to organize, move and watch high-definition content on more than one device. It's the brainchild of the Secure Content Storage Association (SCSA), which has ensured compatibility with UltraViolet, so that users will be able to download cloud-based media to compliant WD and SanDisk storage -- to play on any alliance-approved TVs, tablets and display devices. We'll see the technology available to license later in the year, which promises to render content ten times faster than streaming media on "over the top internet" (translation: streaming services). Yes, there's PR after the break, but we'd only suggest taking a look if you've got a good pair of waders.

Continue reading Fox, Warner, SanDisk and Western Digital's Project Phenix: promotes DRM, misspelling

Fox, Warner, SanDisk and Western Digital's Project Phenix: promotes DRM, misspelling originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th Century Fox20thCenturyFoxDRMFlash MemoryFlashMemoryFoxhdpostcrossmicroSDMore DRMMoreDrmNetflixOTTRupert MurdochRupertMurdochSanDiskSCSASDSecure Content Storage AssociationSecureContentStorageAssociationTwentieth Century FoxTwentiethCenturyFoxUltraVioletWarnerWarner Bros.Warner BrothersWarnerBros.WarnerBrothersWastern DigitalWasternDigitalWBWDWed, 29 Feb 2012 11:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung pairs Qualcomm and ARM DRM to get HD content on Galaxy Note Media Hub]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/samsung-qualcomm-arm-drm-media-hub/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/samsung-qualcomm-arm-drm-media-hub/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/samsung-qualcomm-arm-drm-media-hub/#comments Samsung's going to bring "premium HD video content" to Media Hub after pairing up Qualcomm's StudioAccess and ARM's TrustZone DRM systems. The first device that will benefit from the rollout is the Galaxy Note thanks to its enormous 1280 x 800 HD display. Owners of the large phone / small tablet hybrid will find HD content appearing alongside SD editions of your favorite movies and shows -- previously unavailable because of copyright concerns. There's PR after the break, but we'd suggest reading it only if you enjoy paragraph upon paragraph of executives praising DRM to the hilt.

Continue reading Samsung pairs Qualcomm and ARM DRM to get HD content on Galaxy Note Media Hub

Samsung pairs Qualcomm and ARM DRM to get HD content on Galaxy Note Media Hub originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARmARM TrustZoneArmTrustzoneDRMHD ContentHD MediaHD MediaHubHD StreamingHdContentHdMediaHdMediahubhdpostcrossHdStreamingMedia HubMediaHubmobilepostcrossMWCMWC 2012Mwc2012QualcommQualcomm StudioAccessQualcommStudioaccessSamsungSamsung Media HubSamsung MediaHub HDSamsungMediaHubSamsungMediahubHdSecurityTue, 28 Feb 2012 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Google, Microsoft and Netflix want DRM-like encryption in HTML5]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/google-microsoft-and-netflix-want-drm-like-encryption-in-html5/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/google-microsoft-and-netflix-want-drm-like-encryption-in-html5/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/google-microsoft-and-netflix-want-drm-like-encryption-in-html5/#comments HTML5 is supposed to set the web free. Free to deliver and shape online media in any web browser. However, several of the standard's greatest champions want to be able to restrict the use of audio and video tags through encrypted media extensions. A draft proposal has been submitted by Google, Microsoft, and Netflix to the W3C -- the curators of HTML5 -- to add encrypted media extensions to the web standard's spec. The proposed system works using a key-based content decryption system controlled by applications, thusly providing the copy protection that so many content owners desire. Naturally, the proposal specifically states that "no DRM is added to the HTML5 specification" if it's adopted, but letting apps lock up audio and video content sure sounds like digital rights management to us. However, there's already some discord amongst the W3C's members as to whether the proposal will work as promised, so its addition to HTML5 is far from assured. You can read the full proposal at the source below, and check out the more coverage links for some added perspective.

Google, Microsoft and Netflix want DRM-like encryption in HTML5 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drmencryptiongooglehdpostcrosshtml5internetmediamicrosoftnetflixw3cweb standardsWebStandardsWorld Wide Web ConsortiumWorldWideWebConsortiumThu, 23 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Sky Go finally available on a few Android devices, brings some new channels]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/sky-go-android/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/sky-go-android/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/sky-go-android/#comments It's taken about eight months, but Sky Go is finally available on select Android handsets (HTC Desire, HTC Desire S, HTC Desire HD, HTC Incredible, HTC Sensation, Samsung Galaxy S, Samsung Galaxy S II) after launching on iOS last year. Beyond the limited hardware support, there's a few other caveats to be aware of -- the app is only supported on Android 2.2 and 2.3, so when Ice Cream Sandwich hits some of those phones soon, users will be forced to choose between upgrading or keeping Sky Go working. Another drawback is that due to DRM, the app is blocked from working on rooted devices. Once users have jumped through those hoops though, there will also be even more content available for viewing on all platforms including Sky Atlantic, Sky 1, Sky Living and Sky Arts 1, before F1 coverage launches in March. Speaking of F1 -- Sky also announced its new channel will bring 5.1 surround sound to UK and Ireland broadcasts for the first time this season.

Continue reading Sky Go finally available on a few Android devices, brings some new channels

Sky Go finally available on a few Android devices, brings some new channels originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2android 2.3android 4.0Android2.2Android2.3Android4.0appbskybdrmf1hdpostcrosshdtvhtcIce Cream SandwichIceCreamSandwichminipostmobilemobilepostcrossrootsamsungskysky 1sky 1 hdsky artssky gosky livingsky sports f1 hdSky1Sky1HdSkyArtsSkyGoSkyLivingSkySportsF1HdsportsstreamingtvukMon, 20 Feb 2012 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Bell Canada will stop throttling your P2P traffic, might charge instead]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/25/bell-canada-will-stop-throttling-your-p2p-traffic-might-charge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/25/bell-canada-will-stop-throttling-your-p2p-traffic-might-charge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/25/bell-canada-will-stop-throttling-your-p2p-traffic-might-charge/#comments Since the CRTC took a swipe at net neutrality a few years back, Bell Canada internet customers have maligned its P2P packet-shaping ways. From March 1st, however, users can file-share at the speeds nature (or your ISP) intended. In a letter to the aforementioned regulator, Bell points out that improvements to its network and the proliferation of video streaming mean that the more nefarious traffic just isn't denting its capacity like it used to. As such, the firm will withdraw all P2P shaping for both residential and wholesale customers. So, those ISPs buying their bandwidth from Bell could see the amount they need go up, and with talk of a capacity-based billing model, this could mean charges passed on to users. At least, for now, all that legitimate sharing you do will go unhampered.

Bell Canada will stop throttling your P2P traffic, might charge instead originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandwidth cappingBandwidthCappingBayFilesbell canadaBellCanadaBitTorrentcanadacopyrightCRTCDRMfile hostingfile sharingFileHostingFileSharingillegallegalp2ppeer to peerpeer-to-peerPeerToPeerpiracythrottlingwholesaleSun, 25 Dec 2011 08:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Louis CK makes $1 million in 12 days, proves that DRM-free content is valued]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/louis-ck-makes-1-million-in-12-days-proves-that-drm-free-conte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/louis-ck-makes-1-million-in-12-days-proves-that-drm-free-conte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/louis-ck-makes-1-million-in-12-days-proves-that-drm-free-conte/#comments Hear that, MPAA / RIAA? That's the sound of Louis CK's audience chuckling. Not at one of his jokes, mind you, but at the notion of strapping DRM onto everything you possibly can in order to "make people buy it." In an effort to see if this crazy idea was true or not, the famed comedian decided to sell his Live at the Beacon Theater for just $5. Procuring it was dead simple -- you could either surf over to his website and plop down a PayPal payment, or you could pirate it. Either way, no DRM was affixed. Turns out, people actually are fans of paying money for things that they see as both fair and worthwhile, as evidenced by the $1 million that currently sits in Louis CK's PayPal account. Of course, we've never advise anyone to hold anywhere near that much cash in an account that could be frozen on you at a moment's notice (not that we have experience or anything), but at least he's going to do awesome things with the proceeds. We'll let you hit the source link to find out precisely what that is. Kudos, Louis.

Louis CK makes $1 million in 12 days, proves that DRM-free content is valued originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 20:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comedydownloaddrmlouis ckLouisCkmpaapower to the peoplePowerToThePeopleprivacyriaaThu, 22 Dec 2011 20:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Tech mainstays finally come together on something: littering more HD content with more DRM]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/tech-mainstays-finally-come-together-on-something-littering-mor/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/tech-mainstays-finally-come-together-on-something-littering-mor/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/tech-mainstays-finally-come-together-on-something-littering-mor/#comments Who says the big boys can't be friends? While Samsung, SanDisk, Sony, Toshiba and Panasonic would probably disagree with each other on just about everything, there are still three magical letters that can bring even the biggest rivals together: DRM. While the consortium is doing everything it can to avoid the term, there's no hiding the truth -- the temporarily-named 'Next Generation Secure Memory Initiative' is designed to protect HD content by using "unique ID (identification) technology for flash memory and robust copy protection based on public key infrastructure." Just when we thought Louis C.K. had proven that slapping DRM around something wasn't the best approach, here we go taking a few monumental steps in the wrong direction.

In essence, it sounds as if they're crafting a way to distribute Blu-ray-quality material on SD cards and embedded memory (sound familiar?), and they're also hoping that this will "enable various HD content applications such as HD network download, broadcast content to-go and HD Digital Copy / Managed Copy from Blu-ray Disc." Notably, we're told that Android-based smartphones, tablets, TVs and Blu-ray products in particular can look forward to taking advantage -- in other words, Apple's going to keep doing what Apple does. If all goes well, they'll start licensing the new secure memory technology early next year, and if we had to guess, we'd say the adoption trajectory perfectly matches that of slotRadio. Good luck, folks -- you're going to need it.

Continue reading Tech mainstays finally come together on something: littering more HD content with more DRM

Tech mainstays finally come together on something: littering more HD content with more DRM originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbdblu-rayblu-ray discBlu-rayDiscbusinesscontent protectionContentProtectionDRMflashhdpostcrossindustrylicensingmemory cardMemoryCardnandNext Generation Secure Memory InitiativeNextGenerationSecureMemoryInitiativepanasonicpartnershipsamsungsandisksdsd cardsd cardsSdCardSdCardssecuresecure digitalSecureDigitalsecuritysonystoragetoshibaMon, 19 Dec 2011 11:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Lovefilm's movie streaming will switch from Flash to Silverlight on PCs in 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/04/lovefilms-movie-streaming-will-switch-from-flash-to-silverlight/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/04/lovefilms-movie-streaming-will-switch-from-flash-to-silverlight/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/04/lovefilms-movie-streaming-will-switch-from-flash-to-silverlight/#comments As it prepares for Netflix's 2012 UK invasion, Lovefilm appears to be taking a page out of its competitor's strategy, and it's all because of the studios. When streaming to Windows PCs and Macs it will only support Silverlight as of the first week in January (we should mention it's coincidentally timed alongside a particular electronics show), ditching Flash encodes for its video. Like Watch Instantly, that will mean a lockout for non-Intel Macs and Linux users who don't have a player that supports the necessary DRM, but it's just those three letters that are behind this. Streaming Project Manager Paul Thompson writes on the company blog that Silverlight beat out Flash and new challenger HTML5 in order to meet studio's anti-piracy requirements, as well as take advantage of its Smooth Streaming adaptive bandwidth adjustments. Everything will stay the same on other streaming devices, while Netflix has been able to support Chromebooks via plugin and is rumored to be working on a Netflix solution, we'll have to wait and see if Lovefilm can do the same.

Lovefilm's movie streaming will switch from Flash to Silverlight on PCs in 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drmflashhdpostminilovefilmmacpcsilverlightstreamingukvideo rentalvideo streamingVideoRentalVideoStreamingSun, 04 Dec 2011 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Blu-ray video encryption cracked using $260 kit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/28/blu-ray-video-encryption-cracked-using-260-kit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/28/blu-ray-video-encryption-cracked-using-260-kit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/28/blu-ray-video-encryption-cracked-using-260-kit/#comments When a master key for HDCP encryption surfaced last year, Intel hardly broke a sweat. It declared that nobody could use the key to unlock Blu-rays or other protected sources unless they got into the semiconductor business and "made a computer chip" of their own. Oh Mann, didn't they realize? That sort of language is like a red rag to a German post-grad, and now Ruhr University's Secure Hardware Group has produced the ultimate rebuttal: a custom board that uses a field programmable gate array (FPGA) board to sit between a Blu-ray player and TV and decode the passing traffic. Student price: €200, and no silly bodysuits required.

Blu-ray video encryption cracked using $260 kit originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 06:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-raycopyingCrackdown-2digital rights managementDigitalRightsManagementdrmencryptionfpgahackhackerHDCPhdmihdpostcrossIntelpiracypiraterippingRuhr universityRuhrUniversitysecure hardware groupSecureHardwareGroupsecurityvideovideo encryptionVideoEncryptionXilinxMon, 28 Nov 2011 06:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Ditching DRM could reduce piracy, prices, inconvenience]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/09/ditching-drm-could-reduce-piracy-prices-inconvenience/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/09/ditching-drm-could-reduce-piracy-prices-inconvenience/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/09/ditching-drm-could-reduce-piracy-prices-inconvenience/#commentsDown with DRMThis may run counter to what your common sense tells you but, a new paper out of Duke and Rice University says that ditching DRM could actually reduce piracy. The study, which relied on analytical modeling, showed that while copy protection made illegally sharing content more difficult it had a significantly negative impact on legal users. In fact, the researchers say, "only the legal users pay the price and suffer from the restrictions [of DRM]." Many consumers simply choose to pirate music and movies because doing simple things, like backing up a media collection, is difficult with DRMed content. Even the most effective DRM is eventually broken, and fails to deter those already determined to steal. Meanwhile, abandoning these restrictions could increase competition and drive down prices (as well as remove a serious inconvenience), encouraging more people to legitimately purchase content. You can check out the November-December issue of Marketing Science for more details.

Ditching DRM could reduce piracy, prices, inconvenience originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 09 Oct 2011 20:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DRMDRM freeDrmFreedukeduke universityDukeUniversitypiracyresearchricerice universityRiceUniversitystudySun, 09 Oct 2011 20:22:00 EST<![CDATA[iTunes Match hits US 'end of October' for $24.99]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/itunes-match-hits-us-end-of-october-for-24-99/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/itunes-match-hits-us-end-of-october-for-24-99/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/itunes-match-hits-us-end-of-october-for-24-99/#comments We already had the details on iTunes Match, but now we've got a ballpark release date. According to Apple, the iTunes service will make its debut by the end of the month in the great U S of A, and it can be yours for $24.99 a year. Here's hoping Apple's got a nice, clean (DRM-free 256kbps AAC file) version of Monster Mash floating in the cloud for your Halloween listening pleasure.

iTunes Match hits US 'end of October' for $24.99 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcedappleapple iphone 4breaking newscupertinoDRMdrm free musicDrmFreeMusiciosiphoneitunesitunes matchItunesMatchkeynotelets talk iphoneLetsTalkIphoneliveliveblogmatchmusictim cookTimCookTue, 04 Oct 2011 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Adobe's launching Flash Player 11, Air 3 bringing HD video and 3D gaming to all]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/adobes-launching-flash-player-11-air-3-bringing-hd-video-and-3/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/adobes-launching-flash-player-11-air-3-bringing-hd-video-and-3/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/adobes-launching-flash-player-11-air-3-bringing-hd-video-and-3/#comments While we've had access to Adobe's Flash Player 11 in beta form for months, the company announced it will finally get official, along with Air 3, next month. Among the many new features included are support for accelerated 2D and 3D graphics with a claimed 1,000 times faster performance than Flash Player 10 and Air 2. That's enough to enable "console-quality" gaming on both computers and connected TVs and on mobile devices (Android, iOS, Playbook) with a pre-release version of Flash 11 (a production release you can take on the go is expected in "the near future"). Other new options include allowing developers to package Air 3 along with their apps in a single install, HD video quality on multiple platforms including iOS, DRM for video rentals, 64-bit support and more. Check out Adobe's pitch to developers with a press release and demo videos after the break, including a look at the hit iPad game Machinarium which was built with its tools.

Continue reading Adobe's launching Flash Player 11, Air 3 bringing HD video and 3D gaming to all

Adobe's launching Flash Player 11, Air 3 bringing HD video and 3D gaming to all originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 07:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d64-bitadobeadobe airadobe air 3adobe flashadobe flash 11adobe flash playeradobe flash player 11AdobeAirAdobeAir3AdobeFlashAdobeFlash11AdobeFlashPlayerAdobeFlashPlayer11airair 3Air3androidappleblackberry tablet osBlackberryTabletOsbrowserconnected tvConnectedTvcrossplatformdrmgoogle tvGoogleTvhardware accelerationHardwareAccelerationhdpostcrossiosipadlinuxmachinariummobilemobilepostcrossnativeos xOsXplaybookpluginsamsung smart tvSamsungSmartTvsmart tvSmartTvvideowindowsWed, 21 Sep 2011 07:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Did Netflix just start limiting users to one movie stream at a time? No]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/did-netflix-just-start-limiting-users-to-one-movie-stream-at-a-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/did-netflix-just-start-limiting-users-to-one-movie-stream-at-a-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/did-netflix-just-start-limiting-users-to-one-movie-stream-at-a-t/#comments Over the last couple of days, some Netflix users have reported getting error messages whenever they tried to view Watch Instantly video streams on two different devices at the same time. While some reports have suggested that along with instituting a price hike September 1st it also decided to start cracking down on multiple streams, it turns out there's a simpler explanation. According to spokesman Steve Swasey, the policy is still the same and no Netflix member is limited to less than two streams at once. The messages people are seeing indicating otherwise? An "error" the company is correcting. Glitches suck, and are becoming a bit too routine on the service for our liking -- Hacking Netflix reports another blip caused S1 of Star Trek: TNG to disappear temporarily over the weekend -- but the rumors of a change in policy just aren't true, so keep that subscription canceling finger holstered for now.

Did Netflix just start limiting users to one movie stream at a time? No originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drmhdpostcrossinternet videoInternetVideomultiple streamsMultipleStreamsnetflixonline videoOnlineVideopolicyrumorsteve swaseySteveSwaseystreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyWed, 07 Sep 2011 11:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirate Bay founders launch 'copyright respecting' BayFiles sharing site, still dream of a life on Sealand]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/pirate-bay-founders-launch-copyright-respecting-bayfiles-shari/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/pirate-bay-founders-launch-copyright-respecting-bayfiles-shari/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/pirate-bay-founders-launch-copyright-respecting-bayfiles-shari/#comments It ain't often that the hated few have a genuine change of heart, but it sounds as if the folks who founded The Pirate Bay are tired of sailing the same seas. After years of turning a blind eye to content mavens across the globe, Fredrik Neij and co. have launched what appears to be a legitimate file-sharing site -- one that's "respectful of copyrights." For all intents and purposes, BayFiles is yet another alternative to RapidShare and MegaUpload, acting as a cyberlocker that allows anyone with a web browser to upload files to share via a unique URL. Unregistered users will be limited to a 250MB upload, while standard members get bumped to 500MB and paying 'Premium' members can share up to 5GB per link. According to the terms of service, content that "violates third-party copyrights" cannot be uploaded, and folks who routinely ignore said words could face account termination. Head on down to the source to get started, and if you fall in love, you can pony up €5 a month, €25 for six months, or €45 for 12 months to claim your membership.

Pirate Bay founders launch 'copyright respecting' BayFiles sharing site, still dream of a life on Sealand originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BayFilesBitTorrentcopyrightDRMfile hostingfile sharingFileHostingFileSharingillegallegalMPAAp2ppeer to peerpeer-to-peerPeerToPeerpiracyPirate BayPirateBayRIAAThe Pirate BayThePirateBayThu, 01 Sep 2011 15:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 modders claim CPU hack, make it party like an N64 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/xbox-360-modders-claim-cpu-hack-make-it-party-like-an-n64-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/xbox-360-modders-claim-cpu-hack-make-it-party-like-an-n64-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/xbox-360-modders-claim-cpu-hack-make-it-party-like-an-n64-vide/#comments The security system built into the 360's motherboard has more layers than an onion, which is why previous hacks have generally focused on the optical drive instead. But a couple of circuit breakers named Gligli and Tiros claim to have finally freed up the console's CPU, allowing all 360 variants to boot homebrew software while also making them invulnerable to patches sent out by Microsoft. The video after the break purports to show the fruits of their labor, including an N64 emulator running on a version of Linux. It doesn't really prove anything, except perhaps the lengths these guys have gone to: they use various hardware tools to slow down the console's CPU and then confuse it with so-called 'glitch' pulses in an effort to make it forget its normal boot-up checks. Certainly not a trick for the average F-Zero X racer, particularly when speed-boosting around copy protection like this may be shady in the eyes of the law. (One more thing: don't be put off by the video's soundtrack -- starts out weird but gets better, baby.)

[Thanks, Rodolfo]

Continue reading Xbox 360 modders claim CPU hack, make it party like an N64 (video)

Xbox 360 modders claim CPU hack, make it party like an N64 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesCopyProtectionDRMF-Zero XF-zeroXgliglihackhackshomebrewmodmoddingtirosvideoxboxxbox 360xbox 360 hackxbox 360 hacksXbox360Xbox360HackXbox360HacksWed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix to stream natively from HDMI-equipped tablets (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/netflix-to-stream-from-hdmi-equipped-tablets-enable-lo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/netflix-to-stream-from-hdmi-equipped-tablets-enable-lo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/netflix-to-stream-from-hdmi-equipped-tablets-enable-lo/#comments You read that correctly -- Netflix streaming is about to get really real on impending Honeycomb tablets. One of the nuggets that makes Lenovo's newly unveiled IdeaPad K1 so special is the internal DRM module that allows it to play nice with a fresh build of the Netflix app. As we saw back at MWC with the LG Revolution, future Android 3.x tablets (with an unspecified hardware inclusion) will not only support native Watch Instantly streaming over mini-HDMI / HDMI, but it'll also enable something totally new: local storage. The fresh build of the app -- which will remain exclusive to Lenovo for "a short while" -- will have a heretofore unseen option that'll let subscribers store flicks locally for offline viewing. We're told by Lenovo that files can be stored on the internal flash as well as on microSD cards, and while we've yet to get a hands-on look at the app, we'll be doing everything we can to change that.

Just to answer the obvious question: no, your existing Honeycomb tablet won't be able to support this goodness through a firmware update. You'll actually need a slate with the requisite hardware within to take advantage, and it's hard to say at this point who will follow Lenovo down the path. We're hoping that the added functionality won't lead to a boost in Netflix's monthly rate, but given the history of the app, we can't say we're too terrified about that possibility. So, how fast will the APK be ripped from the fabric of a K1 and thrown out onto the web? Somewhere between "quickly" and "you've got to be kidding me," we're surmising.

Update: So, it seems something has changed since our D9 meeting. There's no offline viewing support, but the streaming is still here. Too bad, but we're hoping it'll be added (back?) in a future update.

Netflix to stream natively from HDMI-equipped tablets (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android 3.1android tabletAndroid3.1AndroidTabletdrmgoogle androidGoogleAndroidhdmihoneycombideapadideapad k1IdeapadK1lenovolocal storageLocalStoragenetflixsoftwarestreamtabletwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyWed, 20 Jul 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[ISP's agree on Copyright Alert System, plan to notify you to death for piracy infringements]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/isps-agree-on-copyright-alert-system-plan-to-notify-you-to-dea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/isps-agree-on-copyright-alert-system-plan-to-notify-you-to-dea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/isps-agree-on-copyright-alert-system-plan-to-notify-you-to-dea/#comments Too little, too late, we're afraid. For the past decade or so, the RIAA (amongst others) have spent every waking hour figuring out how to best sue and frighten every internet-connected human that even dares think about an illegal download. Now that said practice has failed miserably, it's finally resorting to something sensible. The entity announced today that AT&T, Verizon, Comcast, Time Warner Cable and Cablevision have teamed up with the RIAA and MPAA in order to agree upon a six-stage notification system that'll electronically alert internet users whenever their account is used for wrongful downloading. It's actually not all that much different than the systems that have been in place at Suddenlink for what feels like eons, but at least this creates a standard protocol that the whole lot can adhere to. Oh, and before you ask -- under no circumstances will any of these notices result in termination of your broadband connection. There's no way an ISP would agree to such a thing, and indeed, they haven't here. The full run-down can be delved into below, but it's worth noting that no extra "watching" procedures are being put into place; your ISP will only drop you a line if a content overlord asks 'em to. Good times, no?

Continue reading ISP's agree on Copyright Alert System, plan to notify you to death for piracy infringements

ISP's agree on Copyright Alert System, plan to notify you to death for piracy infringements originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 09:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attbittorrentbroadbandCablevisionComcastcopyrightcopyright alertcopyright alertsCopyrightAlertCopyrightAlertsdownloaddownloadingdrmfile sharingFileSharingfiosillegalillegal downloadsIllegalDownloadsinternetispmpaap2ppiracyriaaTime Warner CableTimeWarnerCableu-verseVerizonwarningFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:12:00 EST<![CDATA[WWDC 2011 liveblog: Steve Jobs talks iOS 5, OS X Lion, iCloud and more!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/wwdc-2011-liveblog-steve-jobs-talks-ios-5-os-x-lion-icloud-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/wwdc-2011-liveblog-steve-jobs-talks-ios-5-os-x-lion-icloud-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/wwdc-2011-liveblog-steve-jobs-talks-ios-5-os-x-lion-icloud-an/#comments You're in the right place! Bookmark this page and return on Monday at the times listed below to see Steve Jobs take the stage at Moscone West. WWDC 2011 promises a peek at iOS 5, OS X Lion, the iCloud music storage offering and who knows what else. The iPhone 5? Don't count on it, but also, don't count it out. Your town not listed? Shout your time in comments below!

07:00AM - Hawaii
10:00AM - Pacific
11:00AM - Mountain
12:00PM - Central
01:00PM - Eastern
06:00PM - London
07:00PM - Paris
09:00PM - Moscow
02:00AM - Tokyo (June 7th)

Continue reading WWDC 2011 liveblog: Steve Jobs talks iOS 5, OS X Lion, iCloud and more!

WWDC 2011 liveblog: Steve Jobs talks iOS 5, OS X Lion, iCloud and more! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecloudcloud storageCloudStoragedrmicloudiosios 5Ios5lionliveliveblogmacmobilememusicmusic labelsMusicLabelsoperating systemOperatingSystemosos xos x 10.7os x lionOsXOsX10.7OsXLionriaasoftwaresteve jobsSteveJobswwdcwwdc 2011Wwdc2011Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Google is blocking Android Market movie rentals on rooted devices because of copy protection]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/21/googles-blocking-android-market-movie-rentals-on-rooted-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/21/googles-blocking-android-market-movie-rentals-on-rooted-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/21/googles-blocking-android-market-movie-rentals-on-rooted-devices/#comments Rooting your Motorola Xoom won't stop you from getting an LTE hardware upgrade, but it will throw up a roadblock if you're trying to watch movies rented from YouTube / Android Market. Android Central points out a Google support document that details the "Failed to fetch license for [movie title] (error 49)" message users will see when they try to play a movie on a rooted Android device. Only Xooms with Android 3.1 have access to the service right now, but once support rolls out to all Android 2.2 or higher devices in a couple of weeks some will have to choose between their superuser privileges and Google's nascent movie offerings (at least until someone figures out a workaround anyway). So far rooting and jailbreaking hasn't put a stop to other movie rental services for mobiles (iTunes, Netflix) so even if Google blames the movie studios for the policy, it seems like an odd restriction for the company behind the "open" platform to have.

Google is blocking Android Market movie rentals on rooted devices because of copy protection originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 21 May 2011 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketblockdrmerror 49Error49googlewmovie rentalMovieRentalrootrootingxoomyoutubeSat, 21 May 2011 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel refreshes Wireless Display with support for DRM-protected DVDs, Blu-rays]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/05/intel-refreshes-wireless-display-with-support-for-drm-protected/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/05/intel-refreshes-wireless-display-with-support-for-drm-protected/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/05/intel-refreshes-wireless-display-with-support-for-drm-protected/#commentsWe were bowled over from the start by Intel's Wireless Display technology, which lets you stream HD content from select laptops to an HDTV (with the help of a small adapter, of course). But while WiDi's been good for watching The Colbert Report on Hulu and streaming flicks stored on your hard drive, it hasn't played so nice with DVDs and Blu-rays. At last, though, Intel is supporting HDCP-protected discs (along with some online content) through a free driver update. One catch: it only applies to Sandy Bridge laptops, which just started shipping this spring. If your notebook's a few months too old, well, using an HDMI cable isn't the worst consolation prize.

Intel refreshes Wireless Display with support for DRM-protected DVDs, Blu-rays originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 May 2011 10:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0blu-raydriverdriver updatedriversDriverUpdatedrmdvdhdcpIntelIntel WIDIIntel WIDI 2.0Intel Wireless DisplayIntelWidiIntelWidi2.0IntelWirelessDisplaymedia streamermedia streamersmedia streamingMediaStreamerMediaStreamersMediaStreamingsoftware updateSoftwareUpdatestreamstreamingupdateupdatesWIDIWIDI 2.0Widi2.0Thu, 05 May 2011 10:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Xoom software update brings SSL and Widevine DRM, no LTE quite yet (update: pulled)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/motorola-xoom-software-update-brings-ssl-and-widevine-drm-no-lt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/motorola-xoom-software-update-brings-ssl-and-widevine-drm-no-lt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/motorola-xoom-software-update-brings-ssl-and-widevine-drm-no-lt/#comments Seems like Verizon, Motorola and Google are on a bit of a security bent -- the latest update for the Motorola Xoom lets you take a far more leisurely tour of the internet's walled gardens. There's a WPA-PSK security fix to allow choice users into your mobile hotspot, SSL for secure web browsing, Google's Widevine DRM for viewing locked online video content and HDCP for piping it to your TV. Of course, there's no mention of the Xoom feature we're truly waiting for, but we'll happily take our Bluetooth mouse support and POP3 email in the meanwhile. Droid-Life reports that this HMJ07B update will start hitting Xooms later today, but Verizon's still got a month to make good on those LTE promises.

Update: We're not quite sure what happened, but Droid-Life discovered that Verizon's update-detailing PDF has been pulled, so it's probably better to not expect an OTA upgrade later this afternoon.

[Thanks, K]

Motorola Xoom software update brings SSL and Widevine DRM, no LTE quite yet (update: pulled) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid 3.0Android3.0DRMfirmware updateFirmwareUpdateGoogleHDCPHoneycombMotorola XoomMotorolaXoomsoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateVerizonWidevineXoomThu, 28 Apr 2011 17:41:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV's iPad, iPhone, Android apps will (NOT) have HBO Go streaming May 2nd (Update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/directvs-ipad-iphone-android-apps-will-also-have-hbo-go-strea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/directvs-ipad-iphone-android-apps-will-also-have-hbo-go-strea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/directvs-ipad-iphone-android-apps-will-also-have-hbo-go-strea/#comments Just like the web versions of HBO Go and Max Go are accessible both through their own sites and various provider portals, DirecTV has announced it will include access to them in its own apps on iPad, iPhone and "select Android devices" at the same time native Go apps launch. There's no word on what restrictions may be placed on Android, if it's just Froyo or higher hardware with Flash accessibility, then that's one thing, but Netflix-style DRM tie ups could prove to be much more frustrating to our Game of Thrones streaming plans. The announcement came from DirecTV's official Twitter account which indicated the apps would progress beyond mere remote control and DVR scheduling on the same May 2nd date previously teased in HBO's YouTube trailer -- we'll wait and see how long it takes to be integrated into similar apps from competitors like Comcast and Verizon FiOS.

Update: We've just heard from DirecTV that this was a "mistweet", as it turns out they won't be adding HBO Go access through their own apps and DirecTV customers will have to use the native HBO Go app just like everyone else. Check the @DirecTV account for the latest tweets, we'll put this one on the shelf next to the DirecTiVo for now.

DirecTV's iPad, iPhone, Android apps will (NOT) have HBO Go streaming May 2nd (Update) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapplecinemaxdirectvdrmhbohbo goHboGoiosipadiphonemax goMaxGomobile appsMobileAppsstreamingFri, 22 Apr 2011 18:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Samsung applying Analog Sunset 480p only rules to its new HDTVs? No.]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/04/is-samsung-applying-analog-sunset-480p-only-rules-to-its-new-hdt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/04/is-samsung-applying-analog-sunset-480p-only-rules-to-its-new-hdt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/04/is-samsung-applying-analog-sunset-480p-only-rules-to-its-new-hdt/#comments Over the weekend news popped up at CEPro that industry forums were buzzing about Samsung's new D series LED HDTVs only supporting a maximum 480p resolution through their analog (component) inputs. The author apparently confirmed this with a customer service rep which raised the possibility that Samsung had needlessly extended Analog Sunset rules from its 2011 Blu-ray players (which are limited to 480p out over analog per the new rules) to TVs. In response, Bill Whitaker of Neothings went over to his local Magnolia and confirmed with hands-on testing 1080p via analog worked on the new sets. Just to make sure this applies to all TVs in all situations we checked with Samsung directly and received this official response:
Samsung has made no change to its support for HD input via component connection. Our 2011 televisions continue to support up to 1080p signals through component inputs.
We hope everyone's feeling a little more at ease now and can concentrate on the important things, like whether that funky dual-sided QWERTY remote is a good idea.

Is Samsung applying Analog Sunset 480p only rules to its new HDTVs? No. originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011480panalog sunsetAnalogSunsetcomponentd seriesdrmDSerieshdhdmihdtvictlcdledsamsungMon, 04 Apr 2011 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony licenses Microsoft's PlayReady DRM]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/19/sony-licenses-microsofts-playready-drm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/19/sony-licenses-microsofts-playready-drm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/19/sony-licenses-microsofts-playready-drm/#commentsMicrosoft PlayReady No one really likes DRM, but until Hollywood realizes what we already know -- it is more trouble than it's worth -- it is a fact of life for those who wish to enjoy premium content at home. And in the world of DRM, when it comes to digital distribution, there are two giants; Apple's FairPlay and Microsoft's PlayReady. But while Apple doesn't license its technology to anyone, Microsoft is more than happy to add a name to its long list of licensees. The latest to join that list is Sony, and although we have no idea what said company has in mind, the new Blu-ray players announced at CES will be the first to sport it. Our best guess is that this has something to do with UltraViolet, which seems logical considering the PlayReady is one of the few DRM systems approved by UltraViolet and the CTO of Sony Pictures also happens to be the president of the industry group behind UltraViolet.

Continue reading Sony licenses Microsoft's PlayReady DRM

Sony licenses Microsoft's PlayReady DRM originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 Mar 2011 15:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DRMhdMicrosoftMitch SingerMitchSingerPlayReadySonySony PicturesSonyPicturesUltraVioletSat, 19 Mar 2011 15:37:00 EST<![CDATA[LG Revolution using 1GHz Snapdragon MSM8655, not NVIDIA's Tegra 2]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/16/lg-revolution-dumps-tegra-2-chooses-1ghz-snapdragon-msm8655-ins/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/16/lg-revolution-dumps-tegra-2-chooses-1ghz-snapdragon-msm8655-ins/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/16/lg-revolution-dumps-tegra-2-chooses-1ghz-snapdragon-msm8655-ins/#comments Consider it a mystery solved. Throughout the week here in Barcelona, we've spent an inordinate amount of time chasing down suits from LG, Qualcomm, NVIDIA and Verizon Wireless to answer one simple question: "What's up with the processor in the Revolution?" If you'll recall, NVIDIA actually sent one of its own to Verizon's LTE press event at CES 2011, specifically to bust out a Revolution and gloat about the Tegra 2 chip within (video's after the break if you don't believe us). As it stood, it seemed as if the Thunderbolt and Revolution would be butting heads from a CPU standpoint, with the former definitively sporting a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8655. And then, came the confusion. We showed up at Qualcomm's booth here at Mobile World Congress to see which phone it was using to demonstrate the recently unveiled Netflix-on-Android support -- lo and behold, LG's Revolution was the handset of choice. Obviously, there had to be a new Snapdragon processor within, as only the newest of the new will have the necessary DRM libraries at a hardware level that are necessary to pass muster with the MPAA.

After venturing over to LG's booth, we were also able to confirm that the only Revolution it knew of was boasting a Qualcomm CPU, and the shot above (which was sourced from there) proves it. We also confirmed with Verizon Wireless' paperwork that the version it's expecting in the next month or so will ship with Qualcomm inside. Finally, NVIDIA refused to comment on the matter, simply suggesting that we contact LG for more details. Put all of that together, and we're able to come to two main conclusions. First off, it seems as if LG yanked support for the Tegra 2 at some point between CES and MWC -- right around four weeks. Hard to say if there were reliability issues, an unsatisfactory amount of power drain, or just irreconcilable differences between the two CEOs (joking, of course). Secondly, it's reasonably safe to assume that Verizon's Revolution will be the first Android handset on Big Red to stream Netflix directly, which may please those who were planning on buying one but weren't looking forward to going without Netflix thanks to the Tegra 2 that was (presumably) slated for inclusion. Qualcomm 1, NVIDIA 0.

Update: NVIDIA finally saw fit to drop us a line and clarify a bit. Turns out, the confirmation in the video below was a gaff to begin with, as the Revolution was never going to be outfitted with NVIDIA innards. Go figure, right?

Vlad Savov contributed to this report.

Continue reading LG Revolution using 1GHz Snapdragon MSM8655, not NVIDIA's Tegra 2

LG Revolution using 1GHz Snapdragon MSM8655, not NVIDIA's Tegra 2 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcpudrmexclusivegooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidLGLG revolutionLgRevolutionmpaamsm8655mwcmwc 2011Mwc2011netflixnvidiaprocessorqualcommrevolutionsmartphonesnapdragontegrategra 2Tegra2verizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvideovzwWed, 16 Feb 2011 10:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Android-powered LG Revolution caught streaming Netflix at MWC (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/android-powered-lg-revolution-caught-streaming-netflix-at-mwc-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/android-powered-lg-revolution-caught-streaming-netflix-at-mwc-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/android-powered-lg-revolution-caught-streaming-netflix-at-mwc-v/#comments Well, well -- what have we here? That up above is LG's Revolution, a Snapdragon-powered Android superphone. What's inside is no normal Snapdragon, though. It's actually a newfangled chip that isn't shipping to consumers just yet, which includes DRM libraries at a hardware level that serve to satisfy paranoid movie execs. The good news is that Qualcomm has actually whipped up a solution that'll finally bring Watch Instantly to Android; the bad news is that existing smartphones -- even existing Snapdragon devices -- will not be able to utilize the app. Without new hardware, the Android version of the Netflix app simply won't function, and no one at Qualcomm was willing to tell us when these Netflix-friendly Snapdragon chips would begin to ship out.

Whenever that fateful day arrives, though, Snapdragon devices with HDMI sockets will be able to beam that content right to their HDTV -- the company's hardware is HDCP-approved, so there's no sweat when it comes to watching content on the big screen. On-site representatives made clear that both the phone and the app were for demonstration purposes only, but we'd be shocked if LG's handset shipped without this compatibility. The demo we saw was smooth as butter, and the app itself looked glorious on the Revolution's 4.3-inch touchscreen. See for yourself in the video just past the break.

Gallery: LG Revolution streams Netflix at MWC 2011

Continue reading Android-powered LG Revolution caught streaming Netflix at MWC (video)

Android-powered LG Revolution caught streaming Netflix at MWC (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddemoDRMgooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidhands-onlglg revolutionLgRevolutionmoviemoviesMPAAmwcmwc 2011Mwc2011netflixqualcommrevolutionsecuritysmartphonesnapdragonstreamstreamingvideowatch instantlyWatchInstantlyTue, 15 Feb 2011 07:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Unstoppable: the first Blu-ray film with Android-compatible Digital Copy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/unstoppable-the-first-blu-ray-film-with-android-compatible-digi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/unstoppable-the-first-blu-ray-film-with-android-compatible-digi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/unstoppable-the-first-blu-ray-film-with-android-compatible-digi/#comments It's a little shocking that it's taken this long to get a Digital Copy that's compatible with Android, but clearly it's the week of shackles being broken. Just yesterday, Qualcomm announced that all future Snapdragon devices would be cleared for Netflix streaming, and now Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is announcing that its impending Unstoppable launch will allow Android users to watch the flick on the go. By enabling the transfer through BD Live, it marks the first time that this has been possible with Google's mobile OS, though it should be noted that consumers will need the disc itself, a WiFi-connected BD player, Android 1.6 or higher and the free PocketBLU app to make the magic happen. Both the movie and app can be downloaded starting today, but here's the real question: are you willing to invest in a movie just to experience Digital Copy... on Android?

Continue reading Unstoppable: the first Blu-ray film with Android-compatible Digital Copy

Unstoppable: the first Blu-ray film with Android-compatible Digital Copy originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappBDbd liveBdLiveblu-raydigital copyDigitalCopyDRMfoxgooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidmoviemoviesMPAAPocketBLUsecurityunstoppableTue, 15 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Qualcomm promises Netflix streaming support on 'future Android devices' with Snapdragon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/14/qualcomm-promises-netflix-streaming-support-on-future-android-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/14/qualcomm-promises-netflix-streaming-support-on-future-android-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/14/qualcomm-promises-netflix-streaming-support-on-future-android-d/#comments Qualcomm has apparently figured out what it takes to get Netflix on Android, announcing "future devices" with its Snapdragon mobile processors (like the LG Revolution) will meet all of the DRM requirements for Watch Instantly. Unfortunately that doesn't seem to bode well for your existing Android device, but at least future phones won't have to look on Windows Phone 7 and iOS with envy. Besides a turnkey package for manufacturers to support Netflix in their devices, it also promises plenty of dedicated decoding power to enhance battery life and improve picture quality which can be observed as it demos the Netflix app (hope they brought their own proxy) at Mobile World Congress this week.

Continue reading Qualcomm promises Netflix streaming support on 'future Android devices' with Snapdragon

Qualcomm promises Netflix streaming support on 'future Android devices' with Snapdragon originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappcellphonecpudrmgpumobilemobile world congressmobile world congress 2011MobileWorldCongressMobileWorldCongress2011mwcMWC 2011Mwc2011netflixqualcommsnapdragonstreamingstreaming videoStreamingVideowatch instantlyWatchInstantlyMon, 14 Feb 2011 15:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Google begins censoring autocomplete results for BitTorrent, RapidShare and other Big Media profanity]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/google-begins-censoring-bittorrent-rapidshare-and-other-big-med/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/google-begins-censoring-bittorrent-rapidshare-and-other-big-med/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/google-begins-censoring-bittorrent-rapidshare-and-other-big-med/#comments Tried searching for "BitTorrent," "RapidShare," "uTorrent," "MegaUpload" or even "Ubuntu torrent" lately? Good luck finding a Google domain that'll autocomplete those results for you. Presumably caving to pleading from the MPAA and / or RIAA, El Goog has quietly begun to censor the results it shows when typing the above terms. Needless to say, the aforesaid companies aren't too keen on the new procedures, and strangely enough, a number of other sites that would typically be grouped into this same category -- MediaFire, 4shared and HotFile -- remain on the cleared list. Hit the source link if you're looking for loads of responses from companies angered with Google's move, and feel free to reset your homepage to Bing, Yahoo or any other search engine who has yet to bend. You know, if you're feeling rebellious.

Google begins censoring autocomplete results for BitTorrent, RapidShare and other Big Media profanity originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bittorrentcensorcensorshipdrmgooglelegalmpaap2ppeer to peerPeerToPeerradipdshareriaasearchtorrentutorrentThu, 27 Jan 2011 10:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia shuts down Ovi Music Unlimited service in most markets, cites lack of traction]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/17/nokia-shuts-down-ovi-music-unlimited-service-in-most-markets-ci/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/17/nokia-shuts-down-ovi-music-unlimited-service-in-most-markets-ci/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/17/nokia-shuts-down-ovi-music-unlimited-service-in-most-markets-ci/#comments Whether you knew it as Comes With Music or Ovi Music Unlimited, the sad fact is that pretty soon you won't know it all -- Nokia's subscription music service is being shut down almost universally, with the exception of a few select markets like China, Brazil and South Africa. Reuters reports that the use of DRM to lock down content to less-than-cutting-edge devices was a major stumbling block in the rollout of what was originally supposed to be a major iTunes competitor. Those who are already signed up will continue to have access to their music libraries indefinitely, but won't be able to access new tracks once their current subscription expires. From then on, you'll only have the DRM-free Ovi Music store to keep you warm during those long Finnish nights.

Nokia shuts down Ovi Music Unlimited service in most markets, cites lack of traction originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 07:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecomes with musicComesWithMusicdrmfreefree musicFreeMusicmusicnokiaoviovi musicovi music unlimitedOviMusicOviMusicUnlimitedsubscriptionMon, 17 Jan 2011 07:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple pulls VLC from the iTunes store]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/08/apple-pulls-vlc-from-the-itunes-store/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/08/apple-pulls-vlc-from-the-itunes-store/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/08/apple-pulls-vlc-from-the-itunes-store/#comments Looks like VLC's role as champion of open-source legal rights is no more -- rather than lawyer up, Apple's taken the easy way out, and simply removed the VLC media player from the App Store. Rémi Denis-Courmont -- the VideoLAN developer who originally sued to have it removed -- reports that an Apple attorney informed him that the company had complied with his takedown request, and pulled the app accordingly, which likely puts the kibosh on other potential VLC ports as well. If you think about it, the open-source community may have just planted the first brick in a walled garden of its own.

Apple pulls VLC from the iTunes store originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 08 Jan 2011 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeAppleAppStorecopyrightDRMgeneral public licenseGeneralPublicLicenseGNUGPLiTunes App StoreItunesAppStorekilledlawlegalopen sourceopen-sourceOpenSourcepulledrejectedVideoLANVLCSat, 08 Jan 2011 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[SD Association triples SDHC and SDXC speeds with UHS-II standard, adds secure eBook specification]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/sd-association-triples-sdhc-and-sdxc-speeds-with-uhs-ii-standard/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/sd-association-triples-sdhc-and-sdxc-speeds-with-uhs-ii-standard/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/sd-association-triples-sdhc-and-sdxc-speeds-with-uhs-ii-standard/#comments Don't ever knock the SD Association for lagging behind. A scant seven months after the aforesaid entity revealed the UHS-I specifications, in flies the predicted successor at CES. UHS-II is a newfangled bus-interface system that promises high-def recording speeds of up to 312 megabytes per second, enabling pro shooters and videographers to actually consider an SDHC or SDXC-based camera rather than relying solely on CompactFlash or SSD. The protocol will be an integral part of the SD 4.00 specification that's going out to members later in the quarter, and naturally, it'll only be useful to SDXC and SDHC cards. We're looking at a 3x increase in transfer rates, and these same upticks will be gracing UHS-II microSDXC and microSDHC cards, too. Best of all, UHS-II cards will be fully backwards compatible with older devices and readers, as the speed increase simply relies on a new row of pins on a familiar form factor. In related news, a new eBook SD application has been announced, though the details surrounding it are murky at best. So far as we can tell, eBook SD cards will have their content pretty well contained, giving publishers the ability to rest easy while still getting content out to the myriad products that can understand SD. Peek the full release after the break.

Continue reading SD Association triples SDHC and SDXC speeds with UHS-II standard, adds secure eBook specification

SD Association triples SDHC and SDXC speeds with UHS-II standard, adds secure eBook specification originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2011ces2011drme booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readere-readersebookEReaderflashflash memoryFlashMemoryinterfacememorymemory cardMemoryCardmicro sdmicro sdhcmicro sdxcMicroSdMicroSdhcMicroSdxcsdsd associationSdAssociationsdhcsdxcsecure digitalSecureDigitalspeedstandardUHS-IUSHUSH-IIWed, 05 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archos' Android-based 70b e-reader up for pre-order in Europe]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/22/archos-android-based-70b-e-reader-up-for-pre-order-in-europe/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/22/archos-android-based-70b-e-reader-up-for-pre-order-in-europe/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/22/archos-android-based-70b-e-reader-up-for-pre-order-in-europe/#comments We have all ideas that the 70b will look mighty weak after next year's spate of slates, tablets and readers hit the public view at CES, but with a price tag as diminutive as €99.99 ($130), who cares about bells and / or whistles? Spotted first in the FCC's lairs a few weeks ago, the Archos 70b e-reader is now up for pre-order in Europe, boasting a 7-inch WVGA touchpanel, 4GB of storage, 802.11b/g WiFi and an SD expansion slot. We're told that the battery will keep things humming for around ten hours (or up to 18 if using it strictly as a music player with the screen flipped off), and if we had to guess, we'd say it'll probably make the trip through the Panama Canal in Q1 2011. Question is: will you care?

Archos' Android-based 70b e-reader up for pre-order in Europe originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>70b eReader70bEreader7702adobe digital editionsAdobeDigitalEditionsandroidarchosdrme booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readere-readerseReaderfccgooglegoogle ebooksgoogle ebookstoreGoogleEbooksGoogleEbookstorepre-orderWed, 22 Dec 2010 19:26:00 EST