PCS Intel is claiming that if Verizon customers sign up for the company's recently announced V Cast music-download program, they won't be able to play MP3s on their phones. That's because the phones use Microsoft technology to handle copy protection, and the new software proactively stops attempts at playing MP3s. PCS Intel claims it was part of the deal Microsoft made with Verizon Wireless so that the phones would be exclusively set to play Microsoft's format. If true, it's not good publicity for Verizon, which already has been hammered for disabling Bluetooth on its phones.
For more information about Microsoft's moves to block MP3s:
- read this post on PCS Intel
- check out this article on Techdirt Wireless