"Big Four" Record Company EMI Considering Dropping DRM

EMI Group, one of the European labels that his Steveness called out in his missive, looks to be taking up his suggestion to offer DRM-free music. While it's not clear which "broad swath of its recordings" might be getting the sweet touch of freedom, EMI is discussing selling the consumer-friendly tunes with "Apple, Microsoft, Real Networks and Yahoo," according to the Times.

The Times makes it clear, though, that we shouldn't start soiling our sweats for la revolucion just yet, as it's "far from clear that the company... will reach a deal." And in iTunes' case, it's been pointed out that even tracks which are DRM-less in other stores are locked up tight with FairPlay, so they still might take the all-or-nothing approach, even if EMI does come out for truth, freedom, and the American Way.

EMI May Sell Recordings Online With No Anti-Copying Software [NYT]