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  • Sony licenses Microsoft's PlayReady DRM

    by 
    Ben Drawbaugh
    Ben Drawbaugh
    03.19.2011

    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.