Warner Bros To Offer DivX Downloads

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Warner Brothers will begin offering standard definition DivX video downloads later this month, with high def content to follow next year.

The wide-ranging agreement covers all titles available for digital distribution in the Warner Bros. catalogue including current and back-catalogue major motion pictures and television programs. “Using the DivX secure format is in keeping with our overall digital distribution strategy,” said Jim Wuthrich, Senior Vice President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. “The visual quality, security and widespread interoperability of the DivX format offers an excellent means for consumers to enjoy Warner Bros.’ content whenever and wherever they desire.” All titles offered in the DivX format are compatible with a variety of DivX Certified devices from major consumer electronics brands, including DVD players, Blu-ray devices, gaming consoles and more.

Neither Steve O’Hear (Last100, ZDNet) or I were familiar with this “secure format”, so I checked in directly with DivX. All certified DivX devices have DRM capabilities built into them, going back to their introduction in 2003. Like Apple’s FairPlay scheme, DivX VOD allows folks to playback their purchased or rented video on multiple devices – in this case, up to six computers (Windows or Mac) and DivX certified devices can be authorized. While DivX DRM hasn’t been implemented in the US until now, a number of smaller European content providers have been serving DivX VOD for some time.

The DivX PC software must somehow embed individual certified DivX hardware numbers into the media file for authorization, since most of these devices lack Internet connectivity. It’s a bit more primitive (technologically) than FairPlay, but supports TONS more hardware – including my $35 bedroom DVD player. The process of purchasing, cataloging, and sharing content could make all the difference, though… Apple’s been successful because they’ve built out an interconnected media ecosystem.

Stay tuned for more details on Warners’ distribution methods and pricing.

2 thoughts on “Warner Bros To Offer DivX Downloads”

  1. They’re trying to push me over my ComCastic Cap®, then sales pressure me into switching to TimeWarner cable!!!

  2. The PS3 just got an update which allows it to be registered to play DivX VOD.

    Granted if you have a PS3 you could just download WB movies via the PSN video store.

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