Lessons Learned from iTunes Hack

There have been a few recent posts on the PyMusique iTunes hack.

Today, DRM Watch writes:

PyMusique and other hacks are indicative of two things about iTunes. First, that the FairPlay DRM -- which Apple engaged an outside contractor to develop -- is a purpose-built solution for iTunes, not a DRM platform like Windows Media DRM or Sony OpenMG; and like most such things, it is bound to be less robust. Second, it proves the rule that a DRM-based service's likelihood of being hacked is directly proportional to its popularity. (This may be one reason why we haven't seen any hacks to OpenMG.) . . .

One of our other rules about DRM hacks is that their mere existence does not necessarily mean that all files packaged in that DRM are suddenly out in the open. On the other hand, perhaps this experience teaches us something about the true value of DRM in preventing piracy versus its perceived value to content owners.

Prior post: Johansen Reenables PyMusique Apple iTunes Hack (Mar. 22, 2005).