YOUR DIGITAL RIGHTS will shrink dramatically upon the release of the next Windows operating system if the news reported by Cory Doctorow is correct. Doctorow reports that computers using Windows Vista "will break compatibility with current monitors, analog outputs and currently shipping software, all to unsure that the restrictions dictated by entertainment companies are obeyed by WIndows". This means you will able to do less with your movies and songs on your next Windows computer than now. This is not a good thing for anyone involved in remixing tracks, creating parodies or remediating digital content. This portends an era where the WIndows operating system controls what plays in your home according to the revenue table devised by the major players in the entertainment business. Few who read this blog think that's a good idea.
Like Doctorow, I believe everyone has the right to expect that multimedia content purchased by a home user should be capable of running years after its purchase. Home movies shot with a camcoder should be suitable for reproduction into multiple video formats. CD tracks need to run in the car, in a home boombox, on a computer and on a DVD player under the television. The initial capabilities of Microsoft's new operating system will curtail some of these long-running attributes.
Cory Doctorow -- "Microsoft abandons its customers AND copyright to kiss up to Hollywood"
John Borland -- "Hollywood, Microsoft align on new Windows"
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