[Wylug-discuss] Re: Windows-only distribution of BBC Programs

[Roger]

Smylers wrote:
> On Wylug Announce mikeb at gbdirect.co.uk writes:
>> It's a total disgrace that the BBC has decided to release its programs
>> in a DRM-infested Windows-only format.
> 
> It's disappointing.  But is there a good alternative?
> This analysis makes some good points in defence of the BBC's decision:
>   http://www.currybet.net/cbet_blog/2007/06/free_the_bbc_drm_debate.php

That article suggests that outsourcing programme production and 
scrapping DRM are incompatible, implying that argues against scrapping 
DRM, but isn't it just as powerful an argument against outsourcing?

I can't answer that as such, but there's a clear point that the current 
business model isn't adequate in some respect.

My argument is that license payers have already paid for the BBC's 
output, so it should be available for their personal use.

I know that 'only' moves the argument to a different position, but 
that's significant.  Organisations big enough to crack DRM and rip off 
the license payers (note, not 'rip off the BBC') ar big enough to 
identify and attack.

Further, credit card numbers can be handled sufficiently securely for 
Web trading to be viable, which is evidence that BBC license numbers 
could be too.  I don't see why license fees should subsidise those who 
don't pay for the license! (Others should be charged, even for personal 
use.)

There's a case for the BBC, but it doesn't justify publication in any 
proprietory format, it justifies other remedies.

Roger