In July, Napster disabled its file-swapping services following the
perceived failure of software filters intended to block copyright
infringement. Although an Appeals Court later ruled that the use of
acoustic fingerprinting techniques to detect copyrighted materials
satisfied the need to take precautions against illegal copying, the
service has not been restarted.
The RIAA and other members of the music industry that brought
the challenge against Napster allege that Napster is aware that its
facilities are used to infringe copyright and hope to receive
$100,000 in damages for each work that has been infringed. They
have requested a hearing with Judge Patel on 1st October, but no
trial date has been set.
Earlier this week, Napster’s new CEO Konrad Hilbers said that
the cost of downloading files through its proposed subscription
services should be as little as $5 per month.
