PlayStation 3’s PlayTV content will not be copy protected

PS3 News

By Stevie Smith Feb 26, 2008, 18:49 GMT

With copy protection systems such as DRM (digital rights management) existing as points of contention with media users, PlayStation 3 owners will be pleased to learn that they will be able to export and store TV recordings made with the Sony upcoming PlayTV digital TV receiver. Sony reveals that PlayTV recordings will not be restricted by copy protection. Credit: Sony.

Sony reveals that PlayTV recordings will not be restricted by copy protection. Credit: Sony.During a recent demonstration on gaming Web site Eurogamer, Mark Bunting of Sony’s Cambridge Studio -- which is presently developing the PlayTV software -- revealed exactly how MPEG-2 video files can be transferred from PlayTV over to the PlayStation 3’s menu without being stymied by copy protection.From that point, the raw format media content, which is not only free of copy protection but also time-based usage restriction, can then be exported to external sources including memory sticks, separate hard drives, or a host PC system.

“We’ve talked to our legal department about it,” said Bunting on the subject of piracy via P2P networks such as BitTorrent. “All we’re doing is moving it out of PlayTV and to the cross-media bar as if it was any other recording. So hopefully users won’t do stuff they shouldn’t do with it.”Outlining Sony’s apparent willingness to trust PlayTV users not to do anything illegal with its content, Bunting added that he’d rather authorities moved to catch those making money out of illegally selling media content than see Sony prevent users from storing their recordings in an external location.While officially unveiled back in 2007, Sony has not yet issued a price or a final release date for its PlayTV, which will offer users access to a pair of HD TV tuners, both capable of viewing, recording and playing free TV channels in high or standard definition. Source: GamesIndustry

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DoubtfulFeb 28th, 2008 - 00:04:21

I don't believe that Sony legal department believes that it can pursue this course without being sued. I'm sure that RIAA will sue Sony the instant that it is released to the public. The comment, 'So hopefully users won’t do stuff they shouldn’t do with it' will haunt Sony - although they may be able to use this statement as a release from liability, the RIAA argue that all content must have DRM because if it doesn't then users will use the data inappropriately.
The RIAA will do everything in their power to prevent DRM-free PlayTV.

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MornelitheMar 3rd, 2008 - 19:01:54

Thankfully the RIAA and MPAA have very little strength outside the continental US. Such a strange organization those two...completely independant of any kind of government, including oversight in any way. Run by some of the biggest heads of the industries...and we're all going to sit back and believe every word they say? Hmmm...no thanks, I urge everyone to go out and see the film 'This Movie is not yet Rated'. Gives a very good glimpse into these fellows.

Morne

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