Among the latest news coming out of CES are Time-Warner CEO Jeff Bewkes take on the theory of cord-cutting as well as new product announcements like Rock Band for smartphones, the Ultraviolet digital rights management system for home video and Sony’s new WiFi-enabled home audio system.
Time Warner CEO Jeff Bewkes on Netflix & The ‘Theory’ Of Cord-Cutting
Time Warner CEO Jeff Bewkes calls Netflix a “200-pound chimp” (as opposed to an 800-pound gorilla), doesn’t –believe in the theory of cord-cutting and believes increased use of tablets and smartphones means more ad and subscription revenue. Even in the tech fanboy atmosphere of CES, you probably couldn’t swing a dead cat without hitting somebody who disagrees with Bewkes on all three counts. Bewkes is optimistic about Time Warner’s new TV Everywhere technology that will allow users to access cable on Internet-enabled devices. (CNBC.com)
Rock Band On Your Verizon Smartphone
— Rock Band is coming to select Verizon’s 4G smartphones in 2011 on the company’s 4G LTE network. A “buddy list” feature exclusive to Rock Band on these Verizon devices will allow players to locate friends and join their games. The game will have 20 songs that range from the Go Go’s “We Got the Beat” to Motorhead’s “Ace of Spades.”
DRM Comes To Home Video
— DRM is not dead, it’s just changing. The Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem announced its digital rights management technology for digital video content. Called “Ultraviolet,” it’s a “buy once, play anywhere” authentication system that will allow up to six accounts and 12 unique devices per family. The devices can range from TVs to game consoles and smartphones. Ultraviolet content is expected to go on sale in the middle of the year as digital downloads and will occasionally be included in DVD or Blu-ray discs.
( Ars Technica)
Sony HomeShare WiFi To Music Through Home Stereos
— Sony announced its HomeShare WiFi-enabled audio devices that allows you to play music through your home system. Like Sonos, HomeShare taps a personal music collection or online service for home listening.
(PC Mag)