When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn What Does DRM-Free Mean?
DRM-free refers to media without digital rights management (DRM). DRM-free technology permits software to bypass access control technologies used in media protected by copyright laws. Due to consumer frustration with the inability to play digital music on any device they choose, and for as long as they want, DRM-free products are becoming more popular.
Techopedia Explains DRM-Free
Napster began providing DRM-free MP3 music in 2009. Apple also provides digitally recorded music as DRM-free through iTunes. Apple also provides casual copying (defined as unshared, non commercial digital media usage) by way of their FairPlay DRM software.
Furthering the new U.S. law, copyright owners can be fined if they add DRM software to media that is ruled as exempt. Amazon also provides DRM-free music. However, consumers should be forewarned about reading the fine print from the companies such as Apple, since limitations may be included.
