NIELSEN has partnered with DIGIMARC to create a service that both watermarks...(More)

NIELSEN has partnered with DIGIMARC to create a service that both watermarks and fingerprints digital content, allowing it to be tracked across the web. Fingerprinting will be done by matching the audio track of a video to known content in the Nielsen database while watermarking will embed content information (such as when a show first aired). The service, called Digital Media Manager, will help video-sharing sites identify copyrighted material and apply rules established by the content owner. It is expected to launch this spring. ADOBE released Flash Player 9 with support for H.264 as well as Adobe Flash Media Server 3. The two products will allow for the broad delivery of HD content via the web. HULU has implemented the software to add HD content to its free, ad-supported TV service. Currently, the content is limited to trailers and clips meant to showcase the increased video resolution. SPRINT will do a soft launch of its "XOHM" WiMax service within the next few days. Chicago, Washington D.C. and Baltimore will be part of the initial rollout. The official launch is expected in the second quarter of 2008. THE FCC is facing Senate opposition to the upcoming December 18 vote that could loosen media ownership rules. The Senate Commerce Committee unanimously passed a bill to block the vote and will now present it to the full Senate. The bill reportedly has support from both Democrats and Republicans. NOKIA will offer users one year of free unlimited music downloads from UNIVERSAL MUSIC. Owners of high-end Nokia phones that contain the Ovi Web software will be eligible for the deal, which will roll out in the second half of 2008. Music will be copyright-protected but can be transferred to PCs and kept beyond the first year. Nokia is looking to sign deals with other major labels. * Get the story at Media30.com *(Less)