02-07-2007, 11:16 AM
iPods are able to decode MP3, AAC, protected AAC, Apple Lossless, AIFF, WAV, and video codecs as well, although the latter is not a part of this discussion. The iPod works fine with the leading digital music format, MP3. I would contend it is Microsoft who has been the standard bearer of fracturing the market with a format that they can control, see WMA.
It is trued that the FairPlay DRM is not compatible with non iPod music players. FairPlay has been licensed to manufacturer's of other devices, such as Netgear streaming devices and a few cell phones as well. However, from an install base or even marketshare number, the iPod is by far the dominant portable music player in the United States. Whether discussing flash or hard drive based players, the iPod dominates each category separately and when tallied together.
Yes DRM is a problem, I have written about the issue on Low End Mac, and am but one of many who have tried to tackle this subject. I used to think that Apple, Microsoft, and other companies were secretly happy to see DRM infected content continue as they each carved out a niche of trapped consumers stuck in a particular DRM fiefdom. However, both Bill Gates and Steve Jobs have come out in recent months to speak against DRM, as it pertains to digital music of course. Notice the distinction. Only music. No mention of video, or computing platform DRM, just music. Something is afoot, but the DRM infection is far from defeated.
Nathan
It is trued that the FairPlay DRM is not compatible with non iPod music players. FairPlay has been licensed to manufacturer's of other devices, such as Netgear streaming devices and a few cell phones as well. However, from an install base or even marketshare number, the iPod is by far the dominant portable music player in the United States. Whether discussing flash or hard drive based players, the iPod dominates each category separately and when tallied together.
Yes DRM is a problem, I have written about the issue on Low End Mac, and am but one of many who have tried to tackle this subject. I used to think that Apple, Microsoft, and other companies were secretly happy to see DRM infected content continue as they each carved out a niche of trapped consumers stuck in a particular DRM fiefdom. However, both Bill Gates and Steve Jobs have come out in recent months to speak against DRM, as it pertains to digital music of course. Notice the distinction. Only music. No mention of video, or computing platform DRM, just music. Something is afoot, but the DRM infection is far from defeated.
Nathan