Michael Janger of Abledbody writes about Subtitles, an iPhone OS app that retrieves and displays subtitles from OpenSubtitles.org. Apparently the developer, Dan Walker, submitted an update to Apple, and it was denied on grounds of what seems to be copyright infringement. Because of this issue it is possible Apple could pull the app completely, the price has been reduced from $0.99 to free. I encourage you to download this app before its pulled from the App Store. Mr. Janger’s post has additional information and commentary on this application and the implications of Apple’s actions.
A quick overview of the application:
Using this app means you’ll have to hold up your iPhone/iPodTouch/iPad up so that you can read the subtitles on the device at the same time you can see the movie screen.
You also will have to depend on others to come up with the subtitles for new movie releases. It’s even possible you will not see any subtitles for a new movie until the DVD is released.
(screenshots were taken from the iTunes listing for this application)
May 17, 2010How do you blame Apple if their denial is based on apparent copyright infringement?
May 17, 2010Simple, Tousi. The subtitles are available on the internet and the app merely reads the subtitles. The app neither claims to have made the subtitles nor does it charge for the subtitles. Subtitle files are often created free of charge by motivated individuals for various languages. There is NO copyright infringement.
Also, Apple itself refuses to subtitle most of its material; therefore, Subtitles is providing a new feature.
Frankly, this is just bullshit.
May 17, 2010Joseph, thanks for that. I wonder why Apple doesn’t understand this; would it not behoove them to encourage Subtitles use so they (Apple) wouldn’t have to do it? I mean, how can it hurt them?
May 17, 2010I believe the content providers are the problem. Doesn’t matter if the community goes through the whole movie typing it out word for word. The studios still consider it to infringe on their copyright since the content is being taken from the medium without being purchased. Or with out licensing to use it.
It’s messed up, but that’s how those studios roll. Apple is covering their ass.
May 18, 2010Frank, although it is unfortunate, it still seems to me that what Apple is doing is the right thing to do, legally. Maybe Apple will embrace this population (deaf) when the government finally steps in and undoes this mess. I hope it happens soon.
Sorry, comments are closed.
10:32 am
Thank you for citing my article. I should add that after my article was posted, I spoke to an expert on captioning who also works closely with the movie studios. He said that OpenSubtitles.org is trafficking in pirated content and the fact that it exists doesn’t mean it’s legal. So I’m guessing that the app will be pulled outright. This reminds me of Napster before the courts got involved and ordered Napster to change from a free platform to a paying platform. Hopefully there will be a mobile captioning app or device in the future that will pass the legal test.
Will keep everyone posted.