BBC allowed to add DRM to HD broadcasts

Posted on 18 Jun 2010 at 10:26

Ofcom - the UK communications regulator - has announced that it is to introduce rules mandating the use of Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology in the broadcast of HD content on Freeview.

According to coverage over on [a
href="http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2010-06/17/ofcom-mandates-drm-in-hd-freeview-boxes"]Wired[/a], Ofcom claims that the mandatory use of DRM will "allow broadcasters to control the multiple copying of HD content and its retransmission over the Internet" - something broadcasters, in particular the BBC, have been concerned about.

The proposal will implement DRM on HD broadcasts, limiting the number of times that a recorded programme can be copied to another device, such as a Blu-ray disc. The BBC has promised that normal TV viewing and recording will not be affected.

Lobbyist organisation the Open Rights Group disagrees that DRM is the way forward. In a statement the Group claims that implementing mandatory DRM on the BBC's broadcasts - and those of other broadcasters - risks restricting the users' freedoms, with "software developers [being] stopped from making your TV, computer, and mobile phone work properly with each other [and] your choice of operating system will determine whether or not you can enjoy BBC HD broadcasts to their full extent."

With Ofcom's backing, the BBC is free to implement its chosen form of DRM - but could it result in reduced freedom as the Open Rights Group fears?

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : Home entertainment Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.