New Releases at Home? But There's A Catch

Hollywood is asking the government to let it control what movies HDTV watchers can see based on what hardware they’re using. Studios don’t want pre-DVD releases going over analog cables, where they can be illegally copied. In return, they’re offering to release new movies in HD on cable and satellite TV before DVD, reports the Wall Street Journal.

The Federal Communications Commission has been taking public comment on the proposal since earlier this month, and, so far, most comments oppose the plan. Some opponents worry that it will confuse consumers who may not understand why they can watch only some content, while others are concerned it will stifle competition by letting Hollywood favor certain manufacturers’ products. (More television stories.)