Kasper JadeApple Inc. at the Macworld conference next week will show off a new version of its iTunes jukebox software that bundles support for a digital movie rental service slated for an introduction at the same time, AppleInsider has been able to confirm.
Reports have suggested that individual rentals will fetch between $2 and $5 depending on their stature, but last only 24 hours from the time they're downloaded to the time they'll expire and become unplayable.
Apple's foray into digital rentals may also be complemented by a move on the opposite end of the spectrum, whereby studios participating in the iTunes rental service will also begin shipping physical copies of their movies with iPod-compatible versions included on the same DVD.
A tipster speaking to MacRumors recently noted that his copy of Family Guy - Blue Harvest arrived early and that an iPod-compatible version of the flick — labeled "Fox Digital Copy file" — was included on the disc.
The Twentieth Century Fox film is due for release on January 15th, the same day Apple chief executive Steve Jobs is expected to introduce the iTunes movie rental service to a crowd of thousands at the Macworld Expo and Conference in San Francisco.
Like the rental service, iPod-comptable digital film files that will be included on future DVD discs will also require the presence of iTunes 7.6.
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A poster on ARs said that this was more spreading of Apple's DRM.
Oh well, if it has to be someone's...
I like the idea of portable copies with physical sales. It will get the studios used to digital copies being around.
And at least it appears that Apple will be getting a consession with their limited rental duration--24 hours is useless for most iPod usage...
A poster on ARs said that this was more spreading of Apple's DRM.
Oh well, if it has to be someone's...
Does this imply that the included copy would only work on iPods?
That would be huge for Apple, I suppose.
Does this imply that the included copy would only work on iPods?
That would be huge for Apple, I suppose.
Exactly! Though possibly it would work on Mac's as well, since the DRM is the same, just like with music and Tv shows now, etc.
After all, this is a deal with APPLE, not the general download industry.
Exactly! Though possibly it would work on Mac's as well, since the DRM is the same, just like with music and Tv shows now, etc.
After all, this is a deal with APPLE, not the general download industry.
WOW.
I see it now.
Surely there will be a Zune version included too...