Why Buying Digital Movies is a Bad Idea

Digital delivery is how I want my multimedia content transferred to me. Not only is it possible but it is getting ridiculously advantageous. It is convenient distribution channel that allows for thoughtful research and careful comparison shopping as well as impulse purchases. Media like music can be purchased cheaper through Amazon or iTunes than even at retailing behemoths like Walmart or Target. Movies, too, can be purchased online. However, places like iTunes and Zune sell movies at near Walmart costs. Even with the cost saving benefits removed it can still make sense to purchase movies this way. With the proprietary encryption coded into the download, though, why would someone like me want to buy digitally? If I buy a movie on iTunes, can I play it on my Xbox 360? No. If I buy a Zune movie, can I play it on my Linux box? No. If I buy a movie from Amazon can I play it on my iPod? Again, a resounding no. However, if I buy the physical copy I can play it on all three by ripping the movie to an unencrypted format. If the costs are nearly the same what would motivate me to pursue digital delivery purchases? Until that happens it will be difficult for me to embrace movie purchases through digital delivery.