While doing some research into how I can get Linux to autoplay a DVD, I came across a rather worring article on Zdnet. The article explains that Dell is currently being sued by InterVideo because they have been supplying software that allows users to play DVD’s automatically on insertion
It appears that this simple operation can only be provided by InterVideo due to a patent that they have on this simple operation. If you have read some of my thoughts on how Information Technology should be applied, you will note that I have stong opinions on how Information Technology is being exploited. This is another example of the misplaced focus. I could understand if they were protecting investment in a complex video codec, but this is not the case.