While it is normal to see the major record labels trying everything they can to either shutdown P2P networks or discourage users from them, the merger Sony BMG is trying something quite unusual by going in talks with Grokster.
The label aims to convert the service into a 'legal' P2P network under a new name Mashboxxx. Like Kazaa and Morpheus, Grokster worked on the same FastTrack network in common for file sharing, but if the music label has its way, the service will utilise digital fingerprinting technology to allow only authorised files to be shared on the relaunched service.
Even still, the main purpose behind the proposed service is to continue allowing users to freely share and download certain music, but encourage users to pay to keep music they are interested in. However, music is likely to be in some sort of DRM protected format.
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If launched, the service - said to be called Mashboxxx - would provide both free material and contact with a price-tag attached, according to an Associated Press report citing sources close to the talks. The Mashboxxx name may not make the final cut, since some crafty so-and-so has already nabbed it - on 29 October 2004, no less. It's not clear yet how the service would work. Given the Grokster connection, P2P has to be a strong part of the mix, but with a DRM component. Undoubtedly, the client code would block the sharing of unauthorised material, allowing other files to be traded in the usual way. Suitably programmed DRM rules might allow anyone to download a song, play it once or twice, and then require payment before copying to a CD, digital music player or for further listening on the PC. Read the full article here and some more info at P2Pnet. |
I find it rather odd for Sony and BMG to be putting a lot of effort in protecting their album CDs from reaching file sharing networks and now they suddenly decide to go in talks with a P2P provider to start up their own (limited) file sharing service.
At last, it seems one major label has finally found an alternative approach besides the law in dealing with P2P file sharing networks. Maybe if the RIAA tried this approach with Kazaa and other P2P software providers, they would realise that there is a much simpler process to stopping the main uncontrolled P2P services without wasting their efforts on legal action.
However, with restrictions on what consumers can share on Grokster as well as possible DRM restrictions with music, it is unclear if former Grokster users will continue using the service if it makes the change or if they will venture off to another P2P network. Then again, with only a third of user reviews at Download.com giving the thumbs up for the current Grokster version it seems like Grokster may not have been a good choice after all.
Feel free to discuss and find out more about Grokster and other file sharing services on our Music Downloads, P2P & Legal Issues Forum.
Source: The Register
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