In today’s digital world, the explosion of online content has led to a growing problem of copyright infringement. This has had a significant impact on the creative industry, as copyright owners struggle to protect their work and earn a fair income.DRM (Digital Rights Management) has emerged as a key tool in the fight against copyright infringement. Learn about DRM with Thudo Multimedia in the article below.
Current copyright infringement situation
The digital age has brought with it a wealth of opportunities for creators and consumers alike. However, it has also created a new landscape for copyright infringement.
A 2022 study by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) found that global counterfeiting and piracy reached $1.9 trillion in 2019, up from $1.7 trillion in 2017. The study also found that digital piracy accounted for 59% of all counterfeiting and piracy, up from 54% in 2017.
The music industry is one of the hardest hit by digital piracy. A 2021 report by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) found that the global music industry lost $13.1 billion in revenue due to piracy in 2020.
The film industry is also heavily affected by digital piracy. A 2021 report by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) found that the global film industry lost $5.4 billion in revenue due to piracy in 2020.
Software piracy is another major problem. A 2021 report by the Business Software Alliance (BSA) found that the global software industry lost $46.3 billion in revenue due to piracy in 2020.
The reality of copyright infringement is becoming more and more painful
Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a set of technologies and processes used to protect copyrighted material from unauthorized use, distribution, or reproduction. This systems can be used to control how digital content is accessed, used, and shared.
There are a number of different types of DRM systems, but they all work by encrypting copyrighted material in a way that only authorized users can access it. Authorized users may need to provide a password, purchase a license, or use a special device to access the content.
DRM systems are used by a wide variety of industries, including the music, film, software, and publishing industries. DRM can help to protect copyright owners from piracy and ensure that they are fairly compensated for their work.
DRM protects content copyright on digital platforms
DRM is a tool with many benefits for protecting digital copyright and promoting creativity
Protects the rights of copyright owners: DRM helps control access to and use of content, preventing unauthorized copying and copyright infringement. This allows owners to confidently invest in production and earn fair income from their work.
Ensures a fair income for creators: When content is protected by DRM, creators are encouraged to invest time and effort to create high-quality products that meet market needs.
Encourages investment in high-quality content production: DRM creates a safe environment for investors
Helps users access content safely and legally: DRM makes it easy for users to find and access content safely, ensuring they are not exposed to pirated or malicious content.
In addition, this system also offers some other benefits such as:
Efficient content management: DRM allows content owners to track how their content is used, helping them make better business decisions.
Protects user privacy: Some DRM systems can be used to protect user privacy by encrypting their content.
Promotes innovation: DRM drives innovation in areas such as security, copyright management, and content distribution.
This System allows owners to confidently invest in production and earn fair income from their work.
Limitations of DRM
While DRM offers various benefits, it also has certain limitations that need to be considered:
Can restrict fair use: DRM may hinder users from utilizing copyrighted material for legitimate purposes such as education or research, which are considered fair use under copyright law.
Compatibility issues: DRM systems can be incompatible with certain devices or software, causing difficulties for users in accessing their content.
Privacy concerns: Some DRM systems collect data on users’ content usage, raising privacy and security issues regarding personal information.
Ethical and freedom of information concerns: this system implementation can potentially restrict users’ freedom of information and creativity, sparking debates on the balance between copyright protection and user rights.
Technological advancements: As technology evolves, DRM systems may become outdated or vulnerable to hacking, rendering them less effective in protecting copyrighted material.
It is important to acknowledge these limitations and find solutions that balance copyright protection with user rights.
Raising awareness about DRM is crucial to address its limitations and promote responsible use.
Educational campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate users about copyright, DRM, its benefits, and limitations. Utilize various channels like TV, radio, online platforms, and educational institutions to disseminate information.
Collaborative efforts: Encourage collaboration between copyright owners, technology companies, policymakers, and user groups to develop effective strategies for DRM education and awareness.
Promote research and development: Support research and development of innovative solutions that balance copyright protection and user rights. Explore alternative approaches to DRM that respect user freedom and privacy.
Foster open dialogue: Facilitate open dialogue and discussions between stakeholders to address concerns and find common ground on DRM implementation.
Encourage responsible use: Promote responsible use of DRM among copyright owners, emphasizing the importance of balancing protection with user rights and fair use.
Thudo Multimedia – The Leading OTT Solution Provider In Vietnam
Over the span of 14 years, Thudo Multimedia has remained at the forefront in Vietnam and beyond, pioneering sophisticated technology solutions for digital content providers and broadcasting and telecommunications enterprises/organizations. Since its inception, we have continuously expanded and innovated, leading the charge in delivering cutting-edge solutions for content suppliers and businesses in the television and telecommunications sectors.
Our profound understanding of the market coupled with our ability to adapt flexibly has not only etched a strong presence in the domestic market but has also extended our reach internationally. Notably, Thudo Multimedia stands as the sole enterprise from Vietnam and Southeast Asia to be certified by Cartesian for our Digital Rights Management (DRM) solutions. This recognition is not just a testament to our excellence in safeguarding digital rights for content creators and distributors but also marks our position as one of the few Asian entities achieving this accolade, contributing to the protection of rights for over 20 enterprises across the globe.
We take pride in delivering true value through advanced services, playing a key role in fostering a sustainable and prosperous digital industry. Thudo Multimedia is committed to continuing its role as a beacon of innovation in the fields of information technology and communications.
Sigma Multi DRM – Comprehensive Digital Copyright Protection Solution
Building upon Thudo Multimedia’s robust suite of services, the Sigma Multi DRM stands out with superior features that cater to the demanding needs of content protection. It integrates a comprehensive security solution that encompasses global industry-leading DRM technologies including Microsoft PlayReady, Google’s Widevine, and Apple’s FairPlay.
The deployment of Sigma Multi DRM is seamless and universal, guaranteeing 100% coverage on end-user devices through a flexible and adaptable infrastructure. It pledges to deliver the highest quality content experience to end-users by maintaining rigorous security standards without compromising the viewing experience.
Additionally, Sigma Multi DRM offers a strategic advantage by significantly reducing the cost associated with Content Delivery Network (CDN) expenses. By optimizing the streaming process and content encryption, it not only secures the media content but also minimizes bandwidth usage but also cutting down on cost.
When quality meet standards
Thu Do Multimedia’s Sigma DRM solution is certified. Many leading Vietnamese and international studios and production houses choose Sigma DRM as their leading solution for managing their intellectual property. However, some regions or countries require compliance with specific security standards, and relying on a single solution may not be enough to meet these requirements.
Through more than 14 years of development and constant service innovation, we can proudly said that our products have continuously improved and gained a foothold in the international market. Especially, in December 2019, the DRM solution to protect digital content copyright with the commercial name Sigma DRM of Thu Do Multimedia Joint Stock Company (Thu Do Multimedia) was inspected and certified by Cartesian to meet international security standards. Cartesian is an organization specializing in inspecting security products in the world.
Sigma DRM – Together towards the future
As businesses continue to grow in the future, Sigma DRM will also have more opportunities to assert itself in the international market. Thu Do Multimedia will always try to improve Sigma DRM solution to keep up with the trends of the market and still maintain the goals and directions of our business:
Effective copyright protection
Sigma DRM will always prevent unauthorized copying and sharing of content, protecting the rights of content owner.
Transparent distribution
Ensuring transparency in the distribution process is essential for building trust and fostering a healthy market.
Creating and nurturing a healthy digital music market:
By protecting copyright and making the distribution process transparent, Sigma DRM contributes to building a sustainable business environment where content creator can create with peace of mind and investors can trust.
Conclusion
For more information, please contact Thu Do Multimedia and we will guide your through the digital landscape!
Pay TV has long been the standard for premium television consumption, delivering a range of specialized channels on a subscription basis. However, the tides are turning with the rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) streaming platforms. These services bypass traditional distribution channels like cable or satellite, providing content directly to consumers via the internet. This shift toward OTT streaming signifies a transformation in viewing habits and preferences, emphasizing accessibility and user control. In this article, we explore why switching from Pay TV to OTT platforms not only meets current demands but also offers a variety of unexpected benefits that are reshaping our entertainment experience.
1. Personalized Content Discovery and Recommendations
The beauty of OTT streaming platforms lies in their ability to understand and cater to each viewer’s unique entertainment preferences. These platforms use advanced technology like data analysis and smart algorithms to create a personalized viewing journey for every user. This customization not only makes the watching experience better but also keeps people more engaged.
Here are some ways in which OTT services make personalized content recommendations:
Data-driven content discovery: OTT services collect information about what you watch, what genres you like, and when you usually watch. They use this data to suggest shows and movies that they think you’ll enjoy.
Tailored recommendations: OTT platforms keep track of your viewing history and use it to offer suggestions based on your interests. For example, if you’ve been watching a lot of romantic comedies, they might recommend similar films or TV shows.
Case study – Netflix: One platform that has mastered the art of personalized recommendations is Netflix. Their recommendation system is responsible for 80% of the TV shows discovered by users on the platform. This shows just how much people appreciate getting recommendations that are tailored to their tastes.
The rise of personalized content for pay-TV subscribers is a clear indication of how OTT streaming platforms are adapting to provide a better viewing experience for everyone.
2. Flexibility, Convenience, and Mobility
In the world of video entertainment, there are now many ways to pay for and access content. One of the most popular options is through OTT streaming services. These platforms offer a wide range of choices when it comes to how you pay for and watch your favorite shows and movies.
Here are some key reasons why OTT streaming services are gaining popularity:
Flexible Subscription Options
Gone are the days of being stuck with a fixed package of channels that you don’t really want. With OTT streaming services, you have the freedom to choose what you want to watch and how much you want to pay for it. Some platforms offer a la carte options where you can pick and choose individual shows or movies to rent or buy. Others provide bundled services that give you access to a selection of content for a monthly fee. This flexibility ensures that you only pay for what you actually want to watch.
Convenience and Mobility
One of the biggest advantages of OTT streaming services is the ability to watch content whenever and wherever you want. With mobile apps and online platforms, you can easily stream your favorite shows and movies on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. This means no more waiting for a specific time slot on TV or being tied to your living room couch. Whether you’re on a bus, at a cafe, or traveling abroad, entertainment is just a few taps away.
Seamless Cross-Device Experience
Another great feature of OTT platforms is their ability to sync your viewing progress across different devices. For example, you can start watching a movie on your tablet and then continue from where you left off on your smart TV. This seamless transition between screens makes it easy to switch between devices without missing a beat.
By offering these flexible payment options and convenient viewing experiences, OTT streaming services are catering to the needs of today’s audience. They understand that entertainment should adapt to your lifestyle, not the other way around. So why not embrace this new era of video consumption and enjoy your favorite content on your own terms?
3. Cost Savings Compared to Traditional Pay TV
When it comes to money, pay-TV services can be pricey due to package bundling and premium channel fees. On the other hand, OTT streaming is a more affordable choice with several cost benefits:
Affordable Subscription Plans: The OTT market is competitive, which means there are many subscription plans available for different budgets and viewing habits. This allows consumers to pick and choose what they want to watch without paying for unnecessary channels or content.
No Hidden Fees or Long-Term Contracts: One of the great things about OTT platforms is that they don’t have any hidden costs and don’t require long-term contracts. Subscribers can usually cancel anytime without any extra charges, which is very different from the multi-year commitments often required by traditional pay TV providers.
4. Diverse and On-Demand Content Library
Content diversification in pay-TV services has its limitations. With traditional Pay TV, viewers often have to sit through numerous commercials, interrupting the viewing experience. This is where OTT platforms shine. They not only offer uninterrupted content consumption but also provide a wide range of content choices, allowing users to watch what they want, when they want.
OTT platforms have become breeding grounds for original productions and niche genres. These platforms are not constrained by the traditional boundaries of broadcast television. They have the freedom to experiment with content, providing viewers with a rich diversity of entertainment options that are not typically available on Pay TV.
To illustrate this point, let’s consider international and independent films. Traditional Pay TV stations may not prioritize these due to their limited audience appeal. However, on OTT platforms, such films find a home and reach a global audience who appreciate diverse perspectives.
Netflix’s library is a prime example of content diversification and accessibility in action. It boasts an extensive collection of international movies, documentaries, and TV shows, alongside its line-up of critically acclaimed original productions.
The shift towards OTT streaming services is opening up a world of diverse and on-demand content for viewers worldwide.
5. The Future of Entertainment: Embracing Over – The – Top Streaming
As the entertainment world changes, OTT streaming services are leading the way, offering a dynamic and enhanced viewing experience. These platforms are heavily investing in advanced DRM technologies to fight against piracy and ensure that creators and rights holders are properly paid for their work.
The integration of OTT platforms with the Internet of Things (IoT) has started to redefine how we interact with media. Smart devices now create an environment where content is not just watched but also engaged with, providing a multi-dimensional experience that traditional Pay TV models struggle to match. This combination has turned streaming services into more than just a place to watch shows and movies; they’ve become a central hub for managing our digital lifestyles.
Exploring Super Aggregator Solutions
Super aggregator solutions are emerging as the next big trend in the OTT streaming industry. These platforms consolidate multiple OTT services into a single interface, making it easier for users to access content from various providers without needing to switch between different apps or platforms.
For instance, with a super aggregator platform, you can watch a Netflix original series, catch up on HBO’s latest show, and stream live sports from ESPN+, all within a single user interface. This eliminates the need to manage multiple subscriptions, remember multiple passwords, or navigate through different user interfaces.
The advantages of using a unified platform extend beyond just convenience. It simplifies discovery by providing a single place to browse content across all subscribed services. Billing is also consolidated, making it easier to manage your entertainment budget.
Perhaps one of the most significant benefits is the ability of these platforms to provide personalized recommendations based on viewing habits across multiple services. By analyzing data from all your subscribed OTT platforms, super aggregators can offer more accurate and diverse content suggestions. This enhances user experience and engagement, attracting more viewers to these platforms.
To further enhance the viewer experience and protect copyrighted content, advanced DRM technologies are integrated into these super aggregator platforms. These DRM technologies ensure that copyrighted content remains secure while being accessed through web browsers like Chrome.
In today’s digital age where convenience and personalization are key, it’s evident that super aggregator solutions offer an attractive alternative for consumers looking for a seamless and enriched OTT experience.
Conclusion
The entertainment industry has changed with the rise of OTT streaming services, offering viewers many choices that compete with the traditional Pay TV model. The many advantages, such as tailored content, lower costs, and ease of use, make this shift appealing.
To explore more about OTT streaming and interest things, visit Thudo Multimedia.
The landscape of on-demand streaming, known as Over-The-Top (OTT), has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. From the early days of cable television to the current era of network disruption, the journey has been both dynamic and revolutionary. As we venture into 2024, we explore the significant milestones, technological advancements, and disruptive forces that have shaped the OTT industry. Join us on this comprehensive guide as we delve into the past, present, and future of OTT, unlocking the secrets behind its growth and influence.
1. The Early Days: From Cable Television to Network Disruption
In the nascent stages, OTT emerged as a disruptive force challenging the traditional realms of cable television. Explore how the shift from scheduled programming to on-demand content set the stage for a revolution in the entertainment industry.
2. Riding the Digital Wave: Technological Advancements Fueling OTT Growth
Technological innovations have been the driving force behind the expansion of OTT. Dive into the digital wave that propelled on-demand streaming to new heights, creating an ecosystem where viewers have unparalleled control over their content consumption.
The development of the internet helps OTT develop
3. The Social Media Age: OTT Goes Web 2.0 and Mobile
With the advent of Web 2.0 and the rise of mobile technology, OTT platforms transformed into versatile, interactive hubs. Uncover how social media integration and mobile accessibility reshaped the way audiences engage with on-demand content.
4. Television Redefined: Smart TVs and Converging Experiences
The evolution of Smart TVs marked a pivotal moment in the OTT journey. Explore how these intelligent devices, coupled with converging experiences, elevated the viewer’s interaction with on-demand streaming services.
5. Netflix: The Disruptive Trailblazer of the OTT Revolution
No discussion about the OTT revolution is complete without acknowledging the disruptive influence of Netflix. Chart the course of Netflix’s ascent and its impact on the industry, setting a precedent for other streaming services.
Netflix: The Disruptive Trailblazer of the OTT Revolution
The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Turning Point for the OTT Landscape
The global pandemic accelerated the adoption of on-demand streaming. Examine how the surge in demand during lockdowns reshaped consumer behavior and fueled further growth in the OTT landscape.
6. Battleground for Dominance: Warner Bros. vs. Disney+ in the Streaming Wars
Witness the streaming wars unfold as industry giants like Warner Bros. and Disney+ compete for dominance. Analyze the strategies, content battles, and market dynamics that define this intense competition.
Looking Ahead: Innovations and Challenges in the Future of OTT
Peer into the future of OTT and anticipate the innovations and challenges that lie ahead. From emerging technologies to evolving consumer preferences, understand the factors that will shape the next phase of on-demand streaming.
In conclusion, the history of the OTT industry is a saga of innovation, disruption, and adaptation. From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of modern entertainment, OTT has redefined how we consume content. As we embrace the future, the industry must navigate through challenges and continue to innovate, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for viewers worldwide.
The banking sector is changing because of new digital ideas. This brings new problems with keeping things safe. Recently, reports have shown that bad computer things can cause trouble in the financial world. So, it’s really important to manage the risks and make sure computer networks are safe. Bad people who want to steal money online are working hard to do it. This makes it more likely that computer information will be stolen, and it’s getting harder to stop them.
Rules made by governments and important banks, like EU DORA and G7, are telling banks to be extra safe online. These rules are made because of past problems and to stop future ones. The online world is changing a lot, with more things becoming digital and depending on other companies. There are also problems between countries that make online safety even harder. Banks need to be ready to protect themselves.
Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) make things even more complicated. They can help more people use banking, but they also make it easier for bad people to steal money online.
In this competitive world, where regular banks, new online banks, and tech companies all want to be successful, having a smooth online experience is very important. But, it’s also important to remember that there are dangers online. Using new technology is good, but it has to be safe from new problems.
Increasing Cyber Risks for Banks
As banks and financial services providers continue to grow and innovate, a holistic approach to cybersecurity informed by the latest regulatory insights and threat intelligence will be crucial to ensure sustainable and secure progress.
Cybersecurity in Banking
In the fast-changing world of digital banking, the people who protect against computer bad guys are facing a tough battle. Banks and money stuff are easy targets for computer attacks that can lead to big data leaks. These attacks are usually done to make money, steal secrets, or cause trouble for political reasons. These crimes are a big worry all over the world, as a new report from INTERPOL tells us.
When an attack happens, it can hurt a bank’s reputation, depending on how bad it is. According to a group called the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity, a lot of data gets stolen every month, and many organizations have to pay money to get their data back. Another report says that in 2022, there were more problems with hacking digital money than ever before.
As banking gets more digital and the risks go up, the big bosses need to make sure their business can keep running, follow the rules, and have good computer security to protect against all sorts of attacks.
Companies in the money business need to defend themselves against things like data leaks, ransom demands, nasty computer programs, fake emails, and tricky tricks that bad people are getting better at. It’s getting harder because the ways they attack are becoming more complicated. A 2023 report from a company called Moody’s says that the people who make rules and the companies that give out insurance are trying to reduce the money they might lose from computer attacks, but there will be more people who want insurance than there are companies offering it.
The Value of Cybersecurity for the Banking Sector
To stay strong and competitive in this ever-changing environment, banks and financial companies need to keep coming up with new ideas and make sure those ideas are safe. This is a tough job because there are more and more ways for bad people to attack, especially with digital banking, new financial technology companies, and the introduction of digital currencies. Here are some important things for cybersecurity in banking:
Visibility: It’s really important to see what’s happening on computer networks because more people are using mobile banking, connecting things like smart devices, and using cloud services. With more complicated online threats, you need to keep a close eye on everything happening on your network to stop data leaks and manage risks.
Automation and Efficiency: Old-fashioned security systems that work separately are becoming less useful. Modern cybersecurity needs systems that can do things automatically, reducing the need for people to do everything by hand. Using something called “policy as code” can help make this process even smoother, making sure security rules are always followed on a secure network.
Flexibility: Banks use different kinds of technology that can be in different places, like in the cloud or in their own offices. So, the security rules they use must be flexible and able to change along with the technology. The “policy as code” practice can help with this too, making sure the rules match the technology changes.
Compliance Reporting: Banks need to follow rules set by governments and other organizations to stay safe online. But it’s not just about checking boxes to say you’re following the rules. With the emphasis on cyber safety in these rules, banks need to both follow the rules and be ready to stop online threats. Using “policy as code” can help make sure you’re following the rules automatically.
And don’t forget about the people who work in banks. They need to know how to use new technology and systems. It’s not easy to find experts in these areas, and sometimes there’s a gap in understanding how these systems work.
That’s why Fortinet, a company that works in cybersecurity, is doing a big training program to teach one million people about cybersecurity by 2026. They’re making it easier for security professionals, students, women, and veterans to get this training. They’re also working with many academic partners and organizations to help more people learn about cybersecurity.
As the banking world keeps going digital, being good at cybersecurity means using a smart, well-informed, and flexible approach. It involves bringing together technology and security, teaching people new skills, and using automation. These are the keys to success in this digital journey. Staying safe online is a big part of it.
Cybersecurity Regulatory Impacts
Banks have two big challenges right now: making sure their computer systems are safe and following the changing rules. They need to keep their customers happy while also protecting everyone’s private information and the economy. But, following these new rules and using more digital technology costs a lot of money for both regular and business banks.
It’s really important to keep everything safe in banking because they deal with people’s personal information and make sure transactions go smoothly. But, a recent survey by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) found some problems with how rules are being followed:
56% of banks and rule enforcers don’t have a clear plan to keep banks safe from cyber attacks.
42% don’t have special rules for computer security or tech risks, and a big 68% don’t have a team that’s only focused on risk in their department.
64% haven’t made sure that banks are testing their computer security.
54% don’t have a way for banks to report problems with their computer systems.
48% don’t have rules that specifically deal with computer crimes.
Even though these numbers might look bad, we should see rules and security not as problems but as ways to come up with new ideas and manage risks. For example, a company called McKinsey says that using data analysis in banking can save big banks up to $1 billion every year. This is because they can avoid fines, report their compliance more accurately, and manage their private information and other risks better.
As banking becomes more digital, finding the right balance between new ideas, computer security, and following the rules will be really important. Doing all three can bring amazing opportunities and make sure the financial world is safe, follows the rules, and looks ahead to the future.
For banks, managing risks from online threats is not just about using technical tools. It’s about looking at the whole organization and thinking about all the risks. But, many banks don’t have the right tools to figure out the risks, especially when they work with new digital partners and technologies.
New rules say that banks need to be really good at keeping things going and have a plan for risks that’s the same all around the world. They want to make sure everyone is doing the same thing, so there’s less confusion. They are also looking at companies that help banks and checking if they are safe. Banks are careful when picking who to work with, but there are also new startups that can help. However, banks need to be careful and do their homework to make sure they don’t bring new problems when they work with these startups.
As banking becomes more digital, they need to make sure they have a plan for risks that looks at the rules and how they work with others. This is really important for the future of banking.
Banking Cybersecurity Challenges
In the past, banks worked in separate sections with different goals and used different computer systems. This made things complicated and often made customers unhappy. Traditional banks, especially, had a reputation for making things difficult, especially when people wanted new services or help. To fix this, banks can use a single system that puts all the information together and connects different computer systems. This can help solve many problems caused by these separate sections. However, when information is kept in separate sections, it can also make it easier for bad people to steal data, break into computer systems, and not follow the rules. These are big problems in today’s banking world.
The computer systems and the huge amount of data they use are really important in the digital age of banking. Banks need to deal with old systems and add new technology to them. To solve these problems, banks should create special teams or groups of experts to come up with new ideas and make sure their services are still good. These teams should have clear responsibilities for their projects.
In the past, keeping computer systems safe in banking was simple. But today, banks use thousands or even hundreds of thousands of connected devices like computers and things that connect to the internet. When you add social media, the cloud, and mobile devices, the chances of data leaks and computer risks go up a lot. The big question is how banks can keep their computer systems safe when they are so complicated.
In our ongoing series on digital content theft, we arrive at a subject that has long been at the forefront of intellectual property debates: copyright infringement. In the digital age, the ease of copying and distributing content has made protecting copyrights more challenging and enforcement more critical. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of copyright infringement, its implications, and the evolving landscape of digital piracy.
Understanding Copyright Infringement
Copyright infringement refers to the unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, or display of copyrighted material without the permission of the copyright owner. Copyright protects original works of authorship, including text, music, images, software, and more. Types of copyright infringement include:
Digital Piracy:
Unauthorized copying, downloading, or sharing of copyrighted digital content, such as movies, music, ebooks, and software.
Plagiarism:
Unauthorized use of someone else’s written or creative work without proper attribution or permission.
Software Piracy:
Unauthorized distribution or use of software, often through the illegal sharing of product keys or cracked versions.
How Copyright Infringement Works
How Copyright Infringement Works
File Sharing:
The advent of peer-to-peer (P2P) networks and torrent sites has made it easy for individuals to share copyrighted content, leading to widespread copyright infringement.
Streaming:
Unauthorized streaming platforms and websites offer access to copyrighted movies, TV shows, and music, bypassing legitimate distribution channels.
Digital Reproduction:
Individuals may reproduce copyrighted materials, like books or artwork, without permission and then distribute or sell these copies.
Remixes and Mashups:
While some digital creations fall under fair use, others may infringe on copyright when they use copyrighted material without permission.
Implications of Copyright Infringement
Legal Consequences:
Copyright infringement can result in legal action, including fines and civil lawsuits. Repeat offenders may even face criminal charges.
Loss of Revenue:
Copyright infringement affects content creators and copyright owners by undermining their ability to profit from their work.
Diminished Quality:
When content creators don’t receive compensation for their work due to infringement, they may have less incentive to produce high-quality content.
Ethical Concerns:
Copyright infringement raises ethical questions about respecting the creative and intellectual efforts of others.
The Evolving Landscape of Digital Piracy
Online Streaming Services:
Streaming services like Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon Prime Video offer convenient, affordable access to a vast library of content, reducing the incentive for piracy.
Anti-Piracy Measures:
Copyright owners and law enforcement agencies have taken steps to combat piracy, leading to the shutdown of many torrent sites and legal action against prolific infringers.
Rise of Legal Alternatives:
Legal platforms like YouTube, which offer revenue-sharing options to content creators, have provided a more sustainable model for digital content distribution.
Licensing and Partnerships:
Content creators and copyright owners have explored licensing and partnerships with digital platforms, expanding their reach while retaining control over their intellectual property.
Conclusion
Copyright infringement is a complex issue at the heart of digital content theft. As technology evolves, the line between what constitutes fair use and what constitutes infringement can be blurry. Understanding the implications of copyright infringement, both legally and ethically, is essential in an era where digital content is easily accessible and shareable. While challenges persist, the landscape of digital piracy is evolving, offering legitimate alternatives for both content creators and consumers. Respecting copyrights and supporting legal content distribution is not only a legal obligation but also a means to ensure the continued production of high-quality creative works in the digital age.
Industry Insights: New research shows that there is still plenty of headroom for OTT growth even in saturated markets, while we now have a better understanding of the composition of European OTT content libraries, and The DPP sets the industry mood music for the year.
Aggregation helps drive OTT subscriber numbers
While it is often tempting to think of OTT markets rapidly becoming saturated, study after study constantly finds headroom in even the most crowded marketplace.
As Rapid TV News reports, a new study from Parks Associates has found that 60% of Pay-TV subscribers, accounting for nearly half of US broadband households, are interested in streaming films and TV shows from an online video service as part of their Pay-TV subscription. What’s more, Pay-TV providers are responding to this demand, as the number of pay-TV consumers who receive online video services jumped nearly 50% in a year.
The average number of OTT services among households that have any OTT service was found to be 3.8, while the data shows households with Pay-TV services plus at least one OTT service subscribe to 4.2 OTT services on average.
“Parks suggested that pay-TV providers must keep offering their most valuable content, which includes live sporting and cultural events,” writes the website. “Additionally, it advised operators that they must offer access to streaming, target new services to their interested customers, and perhaps be willing to take a hit on pricing until this [current] chaotic market stabilizes.”
Meanwhile, and not unrelated, data presented by stocks analyst Trading Platforms shows that Netflix still has potential for growth in the US (and, by implication, elsewhere in the world).
The SVOD giant currently has 66m subscribers in the US, approximately one-third of its global total. Trading Platforms extrapolates that to 168.9m unique viewers per month and reckons that will grow to 182.2 by 2024, an 8% increase. Subs will grow in turn to 71% by 2025.
Amazon is currently the second-largest SVOD provider in the US and will remain so, increasing its subscriber numbers to 59.8m. Hulu’s growth is impressive too as the chart below shows, rising to 49.5 million.
But it is Disney that produces the most arresting figures, with Disney+ going from a standing start to 49.8 million subscribers by 2025. That is up 118% over its 2019 already impressive debut. By the end of 2020, 72.4 million people were already tuning in at least once a month.
And while we are talking about markets and subscribers, it is worth mentioning new research that shows insights into the behavior of SVOD subscribers through the lens of what sort of moviegoers they are.
“Cinema power users are subscribed to 50% more SVOD services than infrequent goers, rent twice as many new movie releases, purchase three times as many new releases, and are around three times as likely to pirate content from unauthorized sources,” writes Digital TV Europe.
That said, it’s worth noting the YoY change across the categories for piracy in particular. It is down for the power users but up 28% YoY to just under 24% of all cinema goers, a much larger number of users, and an indication that the problem of content piracy in lockdown has not gone away.
Mapping the European OTT industry’s content libraries
The European Audiovisual Observatory has just launched its latest round of figures and, for the first time, is including television content — both series and TV films — in its LUMIERE VOD database.
As its headline for its announcement of this says, it has uncovered the fact that 44,000 European films and over 12,650 European TV seasons are currently available on a total of 462 VOD services in Europe (138 TVOD and 324 SVOD catalogs). This is a lot of locally produced content, especially given the perception of US dominance in the OTT market. But it arguably gets even more interesting when you dig down into some of the details.
Here are our key takeaways from the figures.
The UK still dominates European TV
The European market has four main content producers, the UK, Germany, France, and Spain. However, the presence of UK-produced content is highly disproportionate to its size. The United Kingdom leads the pack with 44% of all content, followed by Germany (17%), France (9%), and Spain (6%). Together these four provide three-quarters of all available European TV titles on VOD.
A surprising lack of TV co-pros
While the film market featured 30% co-productions with other countries, only 12% of all European content was produced this way. The main secondary co-production countries are the United States and Canada.
Children’s content dominates
9 out of 20 of the Top 20 European TV titles present in catalogs were children’s animated series. Peppa Pig dominates, found in 69 separate catalogs in 20 countries, with the rather more adult-themed live-action Irish/Canadian co-pro of Vikings not far behind. The cultural phenomenon that is Lego enabled Denmark to snag four positions in the Top 20 with its Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu.
Age is no barrier
The average year of production for the Top 20 library content was 2011, though catalogs tended to trend much older than that and the average year of production of all TV seasons found on VOD in Europe was 1987. However, it’s worth noting that 60% of TV content was less than 10 years old, and it is largely outliers such as David Attenborough’s landmark BBC Zoo Quest series (1954) dragging the average down.
Assessing the mood of the industry
Some interesting insights into the year ahead come from the industry body, The DPP. Each year it considers five overarching themes, which it dubs the mood music of the year, that it thinks will inform media businesses in the year ahead.
In previous years when it has done this, you can detect a slow and steady evolution from one year to the next. Unsurprisingly, 2021 is a bit different, and the mood music selected for this year is in places wholly new.
Values
The articulation of business values, and the need to act upon them, is becoming increasingly necessary to attract, maintain and motivate employees on the one hand, and to stay relevant to customers on the other. Sustainability was the value that first broke through at the board level, but this is being joined by diversity and inclusion, wellbeing, trust, and social responsibility.
Data
Understanding the way the pandemic has reshaped the industry needs careful analysis, and companies are increasingly looking at data to provide far more nuanced views of business matters than before and inform the changes they need two make in the future.
Innovation
“Innovation is no longer a choice,” says The DPP, arguing that companies have to innovate if they are to maximize the opportunities that exist in the current slowly post-Covid market.
Adaptability
The DPP’s thoughts on this are worth quoting directly to pick out the subtleties over previous years.
“Over the years, we have seen the mood music theme of speed give way to one about agility. This refinement noted that going faster wasn’t always the appropriate response; sometimes the need is more to be highly responsive.
“That notion has been refined again this year. Many wanted to capture the widespread need for flexibility which has come with both difficult economic circumstances and the need to innovate. The notion applies both internally and externally.
Resilience
The ability to simply maintain business operations despite everything else currently going on.
The organization has also made some more straightforward predictions too, including the increased use of AI and automation and the growing importance of cybersecurity, and we’ll probably have a look at them in detail next time.
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