From the same person who brought us DeCSS, which allows circumventing DVD copy-protection, now comes software that will allow other devices to play copy-protected iPod and iTunes media. The software will “trick” iTunes into thinking that a non-iPod is in fact an iPod, and allow the transfer and use of the copy-protected media. It is important to point out that the software does not remove any copy-protection, it simply imitates it.

The software was developed by Jon Lech Johansen, also know as DVD-Jon for his work in the DVD copy-protection realm. He is partnered with DoubleTwist and together they hope to license the DoubleTwist software to other media player producers who may be interested offering their customers compatibility with iTunes purchased media, and perhaps take a bite out of the iPod market share.

This is an interesting development, and I’ll be keeping an eye on further news in this area. Will this bring about court battles over intellectual property?

Source: Reuters