Boing Boing: Linux-based handheld has DRM?!

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Tuesday, September 20, 2005

Linux-based handheld has DRM?!

Chris sez, "I saw the GPX2 on Boing Boing and decided to do a little more research into the console. You'll note that on the product page at the official site it states that the unit has 'copyright protection by certified DRM.' A blemish on an otherwise awesome product."

I agree -- WTF? So much for ordering one of these. Link (Thanks, Chris!)

Update: Lots of people have written in with various theories about this DRM. Some say that it's just that it honors usage states set in flash media. Others say it's a Microsoft WMA/WMV license. Others say it's to restrict the copying of certain commercial games.

But DRM licenses typically come with at least two requirements that would make this device a deal breaker for me:

1. Resistance to user modification. This means that parts of the hardware and software are designed to be off-limits to the API, resistant to reverse-engineering, and not easily removable or replaceable.

2. Responsive to system renawability messages (SRMs). SRMs are messages that disable or cripple features in your device after you get it home, in order to restrict the functionality you've already paid for. Like when they reduced the number of times you can burn a playlist in iTunes, or when TiVo was "updated" with a new version of Macrovision that makes it possible for broadcasters to delete the shows you record.

Until someone can tell me on a non-speculative basis what modification-resistance and renewability measures are in place on this thing, you can bet that I'll never shell out my dough for one.

Update 2: Clarification from the UK distributor: "Gamepark Korea don't understand English very well and have used the term 'DRM' without realising its impact in the West and its accociation with corporate evil."

posted by Cory Doctorow at 01:45:00 PM permalink | Other blogs' comments

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