Superdistribution


Superdistribution is an approach to distributing digital products such as software, videos, and recorded music in which the products are made publicly available and distributed in encrypted form instead of being sold in retail outlets or online shops. Such products can be passed freely among users on physical media, over the Internet or other networks, or using mobile technologies such as Bluetooth, IrDA or MMS.
Over 280 models of telephones support superdistribution based on OMA DRM; companies such as Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom have been exploring it.
Superdistribution allows and indeed encourages digital products
to be distributed freely in encrypted form, even as the product's owner retains control over the ability to use and modify the product.
Superdistribution is a highly efficient means of distribution because distribution is not impeded by any barriers and anyone can become a distributor.
A product made available through superdistribution may be free, in which case the user can use it immediately
and without restriction, or restricted by means of Digital Rights Management. Restricted products generally require a license that the user must purchase either immediately or
after a trial period.
Superdistribution was invented in 1983 by the Japanese engineer
Ryoichi Mori
and patented by him in 1990. Mori's prototype, which he called the Software
Service System, took the form of a
peer-to-peer-architecture with the following components: