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MPAA: RealDVD copyright protections can be removed at any time

April 29, 2009 An expert for the MPAA, Robert Schumann, testified yesterday at the hearing for the dispute over DVD ripping software RealDVD between the MPAA and RealNetworks, that Real can easily change the copy protection on the software at any time, removing copy protections that limit users of the software to transferring movies and other DVD content to five devices, according to CNET news. Schumann said by removing a line of code and offering a software update to consumers, it could remove all copyright protections, allowing consumers to make an unlimited number of copies.
Schumann said that with the copyright protections now in place on RealDVD, consumers are limited to making copies for just five devices, as RealNetworks claims.

RealNetworks CEO Rob Glaser also took the stand yesterday, admitting that customers could copy rental DVDs with the software, but saying the company encourages customers not to, according to coverage from Seattle's King5 TV station. While not in any way surprising, part of the MPAA's case against Real warns that the software would hurt studios because consumers with the software could easily "rent, rip and return" DVDs if Real is allowed to sell it.
The hearing continues today.

Posted by Jennifer Netherby on April 29, 2009 | Comments (0)