Amazon Will Eliminate Audible DRM If You Want

Many years ago I jumped onto the Audible.com bandwagon. With a NYC work commute approaching two hours on slow train days I needed something that would keep my brain occupied. At least more so than listening to “Rocking the Suburbs” fifteen times a week. It is with great interest as I watch how Amazon handles the acquisition of my old favorite digitally distributed audio book retailer. I’ve dealt with the lame DRM on Audible files, and Amazon’s first move has me smiling.

”Audible's audio books are wrapped in a layer of DRM, which Amazon does not plan to remove unless customers start to complain,” an Amazon spokesperson said regarding the deal and plans moving forward. Now, the DRM on the files is completely useless against piracy. As this is the main argument for placing severe restrictions on digital content I find the whole situation silly. Now that Amazon has opened up the door we should run for it.

I have multiple audio book files that sit on my computer; ready to be transferred to whatever mp3 player happens to be in my pocket that day. Unfortunately iTunes was my program of choice when it became available for Audible, and now I’m stuck. Amazon should take the same position they do in the music store, and now they’ve given the power to us. So, let them know that you’d like DRM removed. It would make your mother proud of you finally.