Google shutting off your purchased videos?
Got this lovely e-mail from the fine folks at Google Video today. The one Deep Space Nine video I bought from them isn't really mine after all. It turns out they're shutting off all Google Videos after August 15. That's right, if you bought a video from Google Video store, looks like you won't be able to watch it after that date. Yep, even though you paid for it. Ain't DRM lovely? They were nice enough to give me a credit I can use at Google Checkout, but no actual refund.
Here's the e-mail:
Hello,
As a valued Google user, we're contacting you with some important information about the videos you've purchased or rented from Google Video. In an effort to improve all Google services, we will no longer offer the ability to buy or rent videos for download from Google Video, ending the DTO/DTR (download-to-own/rent) program. This change will be effective August 15, 2007.
To fully account for the video purchases you made before July 18, 2007, we are providing you with a Google Checkout bonus for $2. Your bonus expires in 60 days, and you can use it at the stores listed here.The minimum purchase amount must be equal to or greater than your bonus amount, before shipping and tax.
After August 15, 2007, you will no longer be able to view your purchased or rented videos.
If you have further questions or requests, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your continued support.Sincerely,
The Google Video Team
Typical of Microsoft. Oh, wait. This isn't Microsoft, it's Google. So much for do no evil.
Do Evil: Don't refund the money
Do Some Evil: Refund the money with restrictions that still give the company a cut of the money and promotes another service.
Do No Evil: use some of that wad of cash they are sitting and and just mail out checks.
You forgot one more-
Do the right thing- Let users keep the files that they PAID for!!!