Warner Brothers will begin offering standard definition DivX video downloads later this month, with high def content to follow next year.
The wide-ranging agreement covers all titles available for digital distribution in the Warner Bros. catalogue including current and back-catalogue major motion pictures and television programs. “Using the DivX secure format is in keeping with our overall digital distribution strategy,†said Jim Wuthrich, Senior Vice President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. “The visual quality, security and widespread interoperability of the DivX format offers an excellent means for consumers to enjoy Warner Bros.’ content whenever and wherever they desire.†All titles offered in the DivX format are compatible with a variety of DivX Certified devices from major consumer electronics brands, including DVD players, Blu-ray devices, gaming consoles and more.
Neither Steve O’Hear (Last100, ZDNet) or I were familiar with this “secure format”, so I checked in directly with DivX. All certified DivX devices have DRM capabilities built into them, going back to their introduction in 2003. Like Apple’s FairPlay scheme, DivX VOD allows folks to playback their purchased or rented video on multiple devices - in this case, up to six computers (Windows or Mac) and DivX certified devices can be authorized. While DivX DRM hasn’t been implemented in the US until now, a number of smaller European content providers have been serving DivX VOD for some time. Stay tuned for more details on Warners’ distribution methods and pricing.
