Ofcom is allowing the BBC to operate its Freeview HD multiplex in such a way that only TV receivers and set-top boxes with built-in digital rights management (DRM) can see programmes’ electronic programme guide (EPG) data.
The BBC had sought the regulator’s permission to block EPG data access, for channels on the multiplex B which it operates, to “enable broadcasters to control the multiple unauthorised copying of broadcast HD content and its retransmission over the internet”, Ofcom says. Those channels are BBC HD, ITV1 HD, Channel 4 HD and S4C Clirlun.
We don’t know how many Freeview receivers out there don’t currently use DRM, which controls viewers what can do with the programmes. But the BBC says it will now freely license the intellectual property required for adding the technology to receivers.
According to these highlights from Ofcom’s approval, the broadcasters sought the restriction because studios would have denied them HD content – but the broadcasters have not publicly said which content would be affected…