Posted by Gary Tait on 11/17/65 11:48

Harri Mellin <atz02-NoSpAm-@netscape.net> wrote in news:psscg.1382
$E02.322@newsb.telia.net:

> In article <1148336075.236383.212090@j33g2000cwa.googlegroups.com>,
> ngc457@mailinator.com wrote:
>
>> http://www.idont.com/
>>
>> "Now is the time to break free from restrictive formats and a single
>> source for music. It's time for choice, for freedom, for
>> self-expression - and for all independent spirits to stand up and say
>> "iDon't." You don't need to follow. There is now an alternative."
>>
>> http://www.theroyalwe.org/1984.html
>>
>
> wma players lock you in to windows and wimp
>
> iPod works on Mac OS and Windows XP
>


This is it (for the DRM protected tracks, not counting conversion, or
access to unencrypted tracks or CD ripping):

WMA-DRM:
Good:
Variety of players (with variety of features, user interfaces, and
codecs) and online content vendors.
No "Licensed" accessory market.

Bad:
Windows only, no video content (AFAIK).
Encryption keys need refreshed, so if you cancel the service, your
purchased tracks likely won't work.

iPod Protected AAC:
Good:
Unified user interface and hardware platfom (mostly).
Windows or Mac
Large userbase from the one store provides decent clout with music
industry, plus large support group.
Has video content to purchase.
DRM keys are perpetual, so will continue to play, even if you cease use
of the iTunes store, or it goes under.

Bad:
Only has iTunes music store.
Only Apple makes the players.
Accessories, although plentiful, are often costly due to Apple's
licensing.

Level paying field:
Both will play each others content with conversion (takes some playing,
may be lossy).
Both play unencrypted MP3s.
Both can use many of the generic MP3 accessories.

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