The file-sharing networks still pulled in considerable money from advertising, according to the ruling. For example, StreamCast Networks Inc., which distributes the Morpheus software, expected to collect $5.7 million in ad revenue last year.
...."This may be the best thing that ever happened to the labels," said Napster co-founder Sean Parker, now president of Internet start-up Plaxo Inc. "It could signal an end to the hubris that has led them down their self-imposed path to destruction, and I'm optimistic that it may spur a genuine effort to find a constructive resolution to the file-sharing problem."
Will they now sue individuals in earnest? Jack Russell says no:
- The RIAA knows (or seems to) that targeting individuals is the fastest way to suicide there is. The fact is, the average file swapper doesn't see himself or herself as a thief in the same way that a shoplifter is a thief (even if they know what they are doing is stealing). Furthermore there are precious few Americans willing to sanction seven digit awards to the music industry from the pockets of people who copied a few songs. Should the RIAA choose to begin attacking consumers in earnest it would likely find the backlash to be catastrophic. Since that, in turn, is not acceptable, we have the current situation where the RIAA will sue everyone BUT the actual thieves.
Consumers are a funny lot. Individually, we're powerless against a large corporation - but when the sleeping dragon is awakened, companies rise and fall based on its whims. Its like being bound to the will of a bratty, drowsy four-year-old who has the complete capability to shatter your business if it ever decides it wants to do so - but most of the time is too sleepy / bored to make the effort. [The Inquirer]
UPDATE
Iraqi Information Minister now working for recording industry?
Article comments
1 - Eric Olsen
appeal not going well for the entertainment industry