iPod Dumb Library.... DRM Stupidity

[AtHomeBoy_2000]

My wife was interested in checking out Audio Book sfrom our local library. THought this quote was rather interesting...

Why can’t I download and play an eAudiobook on an iPod?
iPods use a file format that does not support Digital Rights Management (DRM). DRM technology allows checked out items to expire on the due date. DRM protects the rights of the publishers, especially when items are checked out from the library's collection and borrowed by a user rather than purchased.

http://www.roselle.lib.il.us/Databases/DownloadableAudiobooks_FAQ.htm#NoIpod

Actually, iPods DO support DRM (FairPlay) just not the type this company uses. Such a stupid statement by the library.

 

[WildCowboy]

Leave it to public agencies to use a format (WMA DRM) that is incompatible with 75%+ of the portable music players out there...

 

[iMeowbot]

Wording nitpicks aside, the blurb is essentially correct. The iPod does not currently offer any time-limited DRM scheme, via FairPlay or otherwise.

 

[AtHomeBoy_2000]

I would be all for an Open Source DRM that has two options... paid or free. The rule is that you can include the "Paid" flag int he DRM only if you charge for the file. And you can only include the "Free" flag in the DRM if it is a file that is offered for free (libraries, demo songs, podcasts, ect). That way, all a file can be compatable accross many players yet STILL offer companies (specifically Apple) the the chance to block playback of "Paid" songs.