Unlike Napster, which allows users to swap only MP3 music files stored on their computers, Aimster users can swap any type of file. The downloading of files containing movies is tends to be extremely slow on all but the fastest internet connections, but the movie studios recognise the threat when connections improve. They allege that many infringements of copyright have already taken place, albeit the numbers are small compared to those concerning the music industry.
The latest action appears as a pre-emptive strike against the potential for improved file sharing technology to damage the film industry. The studios are looking for compensation from Aimster of $150,000 for every alleged copyright breach that has occurred. At the same time, several of the main movie studios are reported to be developing their own internet based film distribution services.