Norway brands Apple FairPlay DRM illegal

US company has until 1 October to unlock iTunes DRM

26 January 2007 16:16 GMT / By Amber Maitland

The Netherlands has perfectly timed its decision to joint other European groups who are putting pressure on Apple to open its DRM, as Norway has officially declared iTunes to be illegal.

The Financial Times has reported that the Norwegian consumer watchdog has demanded that Apple must open its FairPlay DRM to other companies so that iTunes songs can be played on devices other than iPods.

It has until 1 October to comply, or it will face fines or a total shutdown.

Along with Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, and now the Netherlands are demanding Apple be less restrictive.

Although Norway's action may not trouble Apple unduly, it may have to take notice if the other countries follow a similar path.

Apple released a statement that reads: “Apple hopes that European governments will encourage a competitive environment that lets innovation thrive, protects intellectual property, and allows consumers to decide which products are successful”.