In an interview with Tech Crunch’s Michael Arrington, Bill Gates offered up his opinion on the long term viability of DRM stating that “I don’t hide the fact that I think DRM isn’t workable, and actively support DRM-free music alternatives such as eMusic and Amie Street.”
He also noted that DRM “causes too much pain for legitmate buyers” and that “people should just buy a cd and rip it. You are legal then.”
I must admit, the fact that these comments are coming from his mouth is surprising – and refreshing. If this isn’t a signal that DRMs days are numbered, I don’t know what is.
