Reuters reports that there is more trouble brewing in Norway for Apple and its iTunes music store. A Norwegian consumer agency is planning to take Apple to court over its use of DRM that prevents customers from playing songs on digital audio players other than iPods.
This is a long-simmering issue. Back in 2007, Norway went as far as declaring iTunes illegal.
Consumer Ombudsman Bjoern Erik Thon wants Apple to offer music that can be played not only on iPods but other devices, including mobile phones.
“It’s a consumer’s right to transfer and play digital content bought and downloaded from the Internet to the music device he himself chooses to use,” Thon said and added: “iTunes makes this impossible or at least difficult, and hence, they act in breach of Norwegian law.”
Thon would also like to see if other European countries would support this court case. An alliance of consumer bodies would give additional credence to the case. Other countries could also then follow suit should the Norwegian case be successful.
Apple must respond by November 3rd when the case goes to the Norwegian Market Council.