DVDs not only have region encoding (which you can avoid with multi-region players), but they're all also encoded with CSS encryption.
Which is why iTunes will happily convert your CDs into AAC format for playing on your iPod, but it won't convert your DVDs into a compressed digital format for playing on your iPod Video, because that would break the American DMCA, and similar laws in other countries.
This is a case where DRM (& associated laws) is clearly detrimental to the consumer. And the consumer would be cross about it, if they realised what was going on.
There was the amusing incident of Barack Obama presenting Gordon Brown with a set of DVDs which didn't work on Mr Brown's DVD player!
Quote:
Originally Posted by HarryT
I really don't think that the typical consumer gives two hoots about it. People are used to it - pretty much everyone buys DVD with DRM region encoding.
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