IPOD COMPATIBILITY CHALLENGE

The BBC reports that Real has produced software that allows users of iPod devices to play music made available by other providers. Previously iPod’s FairPlay software only allowed music provided by Apple to be played on iPods. However, Real’s Harmony program will check the music device the tune is to be played on and will change its format if necessary. The company claims that it is not infringing Apple’s IP rights in the FairPlay DRM software because it mimics that software. Apple had not comment to make on the issue.



The IPKat notes that while the law protects DRM systems, there is a lot to be said for allowing players to be compatible with downloads from other sources. He wonders whether engineering players so that they only play music from the manufacturer of the players could be seen as being anticompetitive.



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UPDATE: Apple has accused Real of "hacker tactics" and says that it will be looking closely at whether Real's developments are compatible with the DMCA. It has also warned consumers that when it updates its iPods, the machines are likely to become incompatible with the Harmony program. See further here.