"There is ample and clear precedent for this activity, for instance the first IBM compatible PCs from Compaq," said RealNetworks. "Harmony creates a way to lock content from Real's music store in a way that is compatible with the iPod, Windows Media DRM devices, and Helix DRM devices. Harmony technology does not remove or disable any digital rights management system. Apple has suggested that new laws such as the DMCA are relevant to this dispute. In fact, the DMCA is not designed to prevent the creation of new methods of locking content and explicitly allows the creation of interoperable software."
The plot thickens. I still can't quite be sure whether Real's tactics are legal, but you can bet Apple's attorneys are combing every Law on the book, looking for a way to legally assault Real.
You know.. I say let Real go ahead and do it. Don't try to stop them.
If a software update breaks Harmony, then Real has to upgrade their software and foot the bill. This happens enough time and people get locked out from their content... well... can't say Real is going to have many happy campers.
Either way what happens? There is competition and both sides have to keep innovating and that is good for us I say.
RealNetworks Responds To Apple
Linear Mode
