Digital Music: Interoperability is Public Necessity, Not Policy
France recently passed a law requiring some interoperability for digital music. Other countres are considering similar measures. Though targeted at Apple, the actual aim is the major recording labels. Apple merely distributes the products that it is allowed.
In "Perspective: iPod forever? Not in its current form" CNET Executive Editor Charles Cooper writes that the law "enshrines the concept of interoperability as a governing principle."
Yes and no. Don't confuse public necessity for public policy.
YES, the law does mandate interoperability …. in this case. It's necessary because the market isn't working in an oligopolistic market controlled by four (and likely soon to be three) international music conglomerates. It's been over a decade since the online channel has opened up. Music is still not available in generally acceptable (open or interoperable) end user formats.
The major labels brought this law upon themselves. If music files were in open format on iTunes or a different channel such as licensed P2P, there would be no need for the law.
NO, this law does not enshrine interoperability. Public policy is best served with a free and open market. Technology industries goes through natural cycles of open and closed architectures. Companies make critical business decisions based on such choices. Government should not interfere. This is a limited and specific case that will not extend to other markets.
October 29th, 2006 at 7:10 am
I think argues on music online will exist forever. And different ways to do what authors want would be found.
“NO, this law does not enshrine interoperability. Public policy is best served with a free and open market. ” I agree