July 18th, 2007
CDVU+ ... where's the DRM?
Walt Disney Co. music label Hollywood Records has announced that it will offer a new CD format with extra features to encourage compact-disc purchases in a bid to halt declining CD sales.
The format, called CDVU+ (CD View Plus) combines music with digital magazine extras, lyrics, band photos and other “extras” to boost fan loyalty and reinvigorate sales.
The new format also replaces the traditional CD booklet and plastic jewel case with eco-friendly recyclable packaging.
Teen punk band Jonas Brothers will be the first act to use CDVU+ when they release their album on August 7. Here are some disc highlights:
- Offered in an easy-to-navigate digital magazine format.
- 50-page interactive digital package is printable and can be downloaded and then accessed both on and offline.
- Song lyrics, 10 different video segments with the band, behind the scenes footage.
- Video offers fans an intimate guitar instruction session with the band.
- Letter from the band.
- 75 printable photos of the band.
- Link to Flickr.com and JonasBrothers.com offers fans continually updated information and content including new photo albums and videos of The Jonas Brothers on tour.
- Customizable autographed poster creator where fans can upload their own image into different band scenarios.
- Special hidden links to exclusive content only available via CDVU+.
- CDVU+ is eco-friendly: 100% recycled material (35% post-consumer).
Details on the CDVU+ format are sketchy at present but I am left wondering whether this “enhanced” format will include some kind of DRM or copy-protection mechanism. To be honest, I’m also uncertain what kind of player you’ll need to be able to make use of this new format. I’m also waiting to find out how much these discs cost, although I’d hazard a guess that they’ll be priced similar to CDs. When I get more info on this format, I’ll let you know.
Adrian is a technology journalist and author who has devoted over a decade to helping users get the most from technology. He also runs a popular blog called The PC Doctor. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations
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