Dave's Download

Studios Seek to Immediately Stop RealDVD Downloads

October 2, 2008 RSS Feed Print

It didn't take Hollywood studios long to fire their own volley and sue RealNetworks over its DVD-ripping software. A number of us, including Jon Healey at the Los Angeles Times, find it hard to believe that Real can win this one on legal grounds.

But you may not have to rush to get a copy, despite the studios seeking a court order that would immediately shut down RealDVD downloads. It's hard to argue that RealDVD would cause that much harm because of other DVD rippers already in the hands of millions, writes Attorney Fred von Lohman from the Electronic Freedom Foundation.

He also argues Real should win the broader case. He explains that another court has ruled that DVDs can be electronically copied "...so long as you keep them secure and play them in a software player that complies with the license requirements."

Tags:: DVDs,; Hollywood,; software

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I can't believe that the courts can't figure this one out. Why is it legal to buy a CD and transfer it to your computer but not a DVD? This doesn't make any sense to me. Do they really expect me to buy the DVD or Blu-ray of Batman and then also buy it on itunes so i can watch it on my ipod? That is just not going to happen, especially with everyone a little tight for money. As long as you own the DVD, I don't see why you can't do whatever you want with it, as long as you are not making copies and distributing them. It seems like the movie studios are getting really greedy. The movies are all ready making a lot of money and most these days are not worth the $10 ticket. Certainly not worth the $10 ticket in the theater, $20 DVD, and now a $20 Itunes download.

Aaron Youkilis of OH 10:14AM October 16, 2008