The first release of Disney’s own content streaming platform will not be compatible with devices running on Linux operating systems. Disney+, which is set for released in mid-November, will also not be supported by some Android devices, The Inquirer reported. This issue comes from the company’s extremely strict digital rights management (DRM) policies.
Disney+ is equipped with the highest level of Widevine, a content decryption module (CDM) used to deter pirates. This CBD has three security levels, the most unforgiving of which is used by the streaming service. In comparison, platforms such as Google Play, Netflix and Amazon use Level 3, the lowest level of Widevine security.
With Disney+ using Level 1, most Linux systems and non-certified Android devices do not have the license to access the platform.
The history of Disney and copyrights
The media company has always been known for being “notoriously protective of its intellectual property.” In the past, the company exerted efforts to extend the copyrights of its face, Mickey Mouse. The firm has changed copyright laws to prevent the Mouse from entering the public domain.
The company has lobbied Congress to change copyright laws, said Highlander News. This changed the laws written back in 1790, which states that copyrights last for 14 years, with an option to extend it for another 14 years.
However, thanks to Disney, the Congress passed the Copyright Act of 1976, which lets owners have sole rights to the work for “either 75 years or the life of the author plus 50 years.”
The rage against DRM
The media company is now utilizing DRM to further protect its copyrights. However, critics of the DRM states that it is “defective by design.” According to the advocacy group Defective by Design (DbD), DRM’s restrictive nature “creates damaged goods” as it prevents users from using services they paid for without operating within the limits of DRM.
DbD also argues that this restriction allows for the surveillance of users and the overall limitation of what users can or cannot access under different circumstances. In certain situations, these policies have compelled users to resort to piracy.
As Disney+ employs Level 1 Widevine security, potential users can expect stricter restrictions compared to Netflix’s already restrictive policies. The Inquirer described Disney’s policies as “draconian,” ever since the VHS and DVD eras.
The platform is set to contain content from Marvel, Lucasfilm, television network ABC and Disney itself.
