Hey Milo, Intellectual property protections are not being waived here. Unlocking these devices to accept outside software and app's is absolutely no different than being able to use software from other vendors on a pc or laptop that runs a Microsoft OS. Both Apple and Att are being monopolistic here, would you have a problem with this ruling if it was Bill Gates? IMHO, if it weren't for Apple's monopolistic attitude from the beginning, no one probably ever would have heard of Microsoft. As far as ATT's practices, well I think their track record speaks for itself.

I understand What you are saying about changing operating systems. I agree about Monopolistic behaviors. I agree about ATT dismal issues. I was just startled bby the ability to reframe this As an Issue of Copyright...

Milo

I haven't read the DMCA, but from what I know about patents and copyrights, based on this article, the ruling would prevent Apple/Att from suing individuals for unlocking their phones, which would probably not have happened anyway. None of this is a whole lot different than the intellectual property furor started by the studios and networks when VCR's came out and people were taping movies and tv. It's about money, but it's also about control. IMO, as phones more and more resemble computers, people should be able to run any app's/software they want on a phone they purchased.

The idea that the copyright owners can just write and bribe into law Intellectual Property Protections on millions BILLIONS of dollars in cash flow shouldn't be so shocking I suppose.

If you think the DMCA is a good law you're much more naive than I thought.

Not so much a good law, as one that crumbled so easily, and yet unanticipatedly.

Milo

If I buy an automobile, there is no restriction on which brand of oil or gasoline to use in it, nor prevention of adding applications , improved radio, GPS, etc. and none would be permitted by law.