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Clickfree Automatically Backs Up Files to Disks
Tweet Share on Facebook October 3, 2008 Comment (2)I've tried another option for consumers too befuddled, or too lazy, to back up their computer files. Clickfree sells backup drives and DVDs that make it brain-dead simple to preserve the photos, music, and video that clog our home PCs.
Clickfree saves the files locally, unlike the online service Backblaze that offers a similarly simple backup. Both use software that automatically finds the precious cargo and targets the files for copying. Users don't have to go through the tedious task of picking out folders and files for a safety net.
In testing, the Clickfree software lives up to its name. Plug in the media and it starts the process.
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Studios Seek to Immediately Stop RealDVD Downloads
Tweet Share on Facebook October 2, 2008 Comment (2)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."
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Starz Titles Now Available for Netflix Streaming
Tweet Share on Facebook October 1, 2008 CommentHaving just shuttered its own download service, Starz has shifted its 2,500 movies, concerts, and TV shows to Netflix's streaming service. The titles add significantly to the instant-viewing option on Netflix, which now boasts more than 15,000 choices available across a broadband link.
The Starz library adds badly needed first-run flicks to the Netflix service. Using a Roku Player, we always find something to watch when we flip through the instant Netflix choices. We'll be searching less and watching more with Starz titles like No Country for Old Men, Superbad and Ratatouille.
Oddly, Netflix has added a new subscription option for viewers who just want the Starz choices—whoever they might be. That subscription will cost $8 a month. Who wouldn't pay an extra $1 to get unlimited access to all 15,000 titles, plus a Netflix DVD in the mail?
That overpriced subscription looks like something Starz must have demanded. Double oddly, it's $2 a month more than Starz is charging through a partnership with Verizon for unlimited downloads. Huh? Starz has the look of a channel thrashing about, throwing movies at the wall to see what sticks.
Whatever, we're glad they threw them all at Netflix.
