I just came across an interesting article in last month's Technology Review, on the latest attempt by the powers that be to restrict piracy. This attempt centers on an electronic circuit that will be embedded into every (HD)TV, which monitors incoming signals for something known as the broadcast flag.
Every TV sold in the United States will come equipped with an electronic circuit that will search incoming TV programs for a tiny electronic “flag.” The MPAA’s members will control this flag, putting it into broadcast movies and television shows as they see fit. If the flag is present, your TV will go into a special high-security mode and lock down its high-quality digital outputs. If you want to record a flagged program, you’ll have to do so on analog tape or on a special low-resolution DVD. Any recording will be limited to analog-quality sound.
The writer analyses the pros and cons of this Orwellian piece of technology, and how this could set a rather dangerous precedent.. The article is available here.
- Log in to post comments