This would allow users to legally make copies of copyrighted films to be played on different devices – PC, TV or portable device – throughout the home.
Fears over DVD piracy have led current copy-protection mechanisms to limit the playing of individual DVDs to one type of device only, but advances in technology may allow copyright holders to loosen their control a little, while still being reassured that they will have adequate protection against piracy.
The cross-industry coalition, known as Advanced Access Content System License Administrator, includes IBM, Intel, Microsoft, Panasonic, Sony, Toshiba, Disney and Warner Brothers.
The Advanced Access Content System is expected to be available for licence later this year.