New Digital Rights Management Software Introduced

Microsoft has recently released a new digital rights management software, code-named Janus, that will allow users to set expiration dates on digital files such as digital music or movie files. The availability of digital files that "expire" introduces the possibility of rental of such files, or access to unlimited files for limited periods of time through subscription services such as Napster. It is believed that time/use-limited digital files may create a new market for such works and also help thwart piracy. However, a few potential problems exist. First, not everyone will be able to take advantage of these new digital "rentals", as the files are expected to only work with specially designed players. Second, it is not clear how these files will be made available to users. If the files are accessible only through the Internet, availability may be limited to users with high speed access. Third, and most important, to be successful, the time-limited digital format must be embraced by manufacturers of players and producers of content. Consumers will be reluctant to purchase players for these files unless they can be sure that content compatible with their equipment is available. Although Microsoft has stated that more than 20 companies, including AOL, Disney and Napster, are supporting the new software, no major content providers have been identified as yet. The question of how "hacker-resistant" the files will actually be may determine the acceptance of the format by content producers. For more information, visit: http://makeashorterlink.com/?J52E25448. Summary by: Sue Diaz