Experts fear that a serious issue could develop mainly with users of Blu ray media when transferring files, especially as an increasing number of homes start using the high-definition format.
In order for the digital copies that are embedded in the discs to be copied over to either a portable device or computer the files must be transferred over within 12 month of the date of release according to the small print information.
Even though these copied files can be played indefinitely once the copy has been made, anyone missing this 12 month deadline will find that they can no longer make copies. Although the majority of studios embed copies onto discs there is uncertainty that the deadline affects users deciding to download digital copies.
Over 50 percent of a new release title on DVD that normally contains digital copies are purchased in the first couple of weeks by consumers, which gives them lots of time to make their copies, so with this media format it isn’t really an issue. The amount of time new release Blu rays currently stay on the shelf before being purchased is usually a lot longer and this gives users less time to activate the digital copy.
An increasing number of retailer are now hoping that the studio will extend the deadline for the transfer of digital copies on Blu ray disc with concerns of upsetting users who miss their chance of activating their copy without realising it.
One retailer said “We’ve made that point in studio meetings, but many just shrug their shoulders. They believe they do tell [consumers] it expires. But I don’t think there is enough info on the package.”
Starting on 25th August Walt Disney Studio Home Entertainment has advised that is will be increasing the deadline for transferring its digital copies to 18 month on all of its titles that contain embedded copies in response to the concerns of the industry.
Source - www.videobusiness.com