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Thread: EC inquiry could hit Apple and record firms with massive fines!

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    EC inquiry could hit Apple and record firms with massive fines!

    Apple and all the big record companies are facing a European Commission investigation that came about because UK-based users of the iTunes store are barred from buying tracks on other Apple stores in Europe - where they're sold more cheaply.

    The announcement from the EC, which couches things in rather general terms, comes close behind the joint announcement by Apple and EMI (one of the music firms under investigation) that all of EMI's catalogue will be available without any form of copy-protection, for a slight premium. See this HEXUS.lifestyle news article, EMI and Apple announce DRM-free music.
    Find out more about what the EC is up to and tell us what you think will happen as a result of this announcement and yesterday's.

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    As a result of this announcement I think exactly 0 will happen. It'll be a long winded investigation, with a laboured report that ultimately means very little if any change to the current system/pricing for us users.

    Just my thoughts.

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    A bit like when they investigated MS? Nah, you're dead wrong - the single market concept is directly opposed to a per state pricing model. Of course Apple will act like the victim in this (it's good PR) but they've made good money out of it no doubt. I don't see why the EU can't take on the music industry - they've managed it with the car industry.

    As for the DRM thing - well that's only come about because EMI need the cash, and Apple are being pressured by several member states by possible legal action over the iTunes-iPod lock-in.
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    Honestly i don't see how Apple can be the one fined?, I mean if the record companies are the ones putting the restrictions on them, then surely the record companies are the ones at fault?.

    Apple have to abide by the deals agreed by law and opening their sites up to cross border sales would surely breach the agreements and open themselves up to lawsuits from the record companies on breach of contract.

    I'm pleased to see the DRM free tracks appearing and apple hopefully will push for more things like this to be appearing from others soon.

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    Quote Originally Posted by dangel View Post
    A bit like when they investigated MS? Nah, you're dead wrong - the single market concept is directly opposed to a per state pricing model. Of course Apple will act like the victim in this (it's good PR) but they've made good money out of it no doubt. I don't see why the EU can't take on the music industry - they've managed it with the car industry.

    As for the DRM thing - well that's only come about because EMI need the cash, and Apple are being pressured by several member states by possible legal action over the iTunes-iPod lock-in.
    Sometimes, sire, I likes the cut of yer jib!


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    Quote Originally Posted by Bob Crabtree View Post
    Sometimes, sire, I likes the cut of yer jib!

    Lol Bob
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    Quote Originally Posted by dangel View Post
    Lol Bob

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