(Credit:
Real Networks)
Update: Not surprisingly, it appears that the availability of the RealDVD software has caused the Hollywood litigation machine to shift into high gear. Real has filed a pre-emptive suit against the studios, who are expected to countersue later today.
Three weeks ago, we told you about RealDVD, the new software package from Real Networks that lets you rip DVDs to your PC's hard drive--legally. The software is now available for direct download from realdvd.com. For a limited time, it's just $30 (as opposed to the $50 standard price). Up to four additional licenses (which allow you to play your saved movies on other PCs) are available for $20 apiece. A free 30-day trial version allows you to try before you buy.
So, what do you think: are you taking the plunge on RealDVD, or sticking with (legally ambiguous) freeware alternatives?
Related coverage: Could Apple add RealDVD-like DVD-ripping to iTunes?
The iTunes Store: Apple's biggest incentive not to add DVD ripping.
(Credit: CNET)The first smattering of user reactions to RealNetworks' RealDVD software--which allows users to legally rip DVD movies to their PC hard drives--is less than enthusiastic, to say the least. The most telling comment: "Lack of mobile device support is the killer for me." Indeed, Real's product lets you move ripped movies between a total of five licensed PCs, but that assumes they're on a USB hard drive or some sort of flash media--thus far, there's no provision for network streaming, and no support for transferring the movies to portable devices."
Of course, when people say "portable media players," it's pretty much a synonym for "iPod." And while we could imagine Real eventually cutting deals to have devices that are compatible with its proprietary RealDVD format, it's a safe bet that Apple won't be among the partners. But the whole existence of RealDVD raises another question: if Real can release software that makes it quick, easy, and legal for users to rip their DVDs to their PC hard drive, why can't Apple?
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(Credit:
Real Networks)
Related coverage: Could Apple add RealDVD-like DVD-ripping to iTunes?
RealNetworks will soon let users rip DVDs to their hard drives--legally. The company will be unveiling the RealDVD software at Monday's DemoFall conference in San Diego, but CNET got an early look at the software. Our hands-on impressions follow:
Operation is simple and straightforward. Once the RealDVD software is installed, just pop a DVD into your PC, and the program will copy the entire disc to your hard disk. Depending on the read speed of your computer's DVD drive, the operation will probably take 15-20 minutes (for dual-layer discs that house 7 to 8.5GB of data). You can copy as many as your hard drive will hold, and the program's browsing screen gives you the cover art and relevant metadata (cover art, stars, directors, plot summaries, ratings).
Whether you're at 37,000 feet or you're accessing the program on a home theater PC hooked up to your TV, you need only click on the movie you want to watch, and it'll start straight away. (We say "movie," but RealDVD works just as well for TV shows on DVD as well.) The files are uncompressed, and include everything on the disc--all the extras, and all of the surround sound and alternate audio tracks. Videos can only be watched in the program's built-in software player, but you can toggle to full-screen viewing, and videos autoresume wherever you last left off.
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(Credit:
Rick Broida)
Remember Giveaway of the Day, the site that offers one commercial software program free of charge every day? They've got a gem today: Aplus DVD Ripper (Windows), which lets you back up your movies to your PC and/or convert them for viewing on your iPod, Zune, cell phone, or other portable device. It normally sells for $39.99.
Remember, there's a catch: You have only until midnight tonight (ET) to download and install the program. After that, it's gone (though GotD does occasionally repeat its giveaways). But that's the one and only catch, so if you have even the slightest interest in archiving or converting the DVDs you own, grab this program before the day is out.
I'm in the process of copying The Iron Giant (an under-appreciated classic) to my iPod Touch; so far the program is working like a champ. It's a snap to use and offers plenty of control over video and audio settings. And, hey, if it doesn't work out, so what? Didn't cost me a cent.
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