Technology that could prevent resale of games and other digital goods raises speculation, fears. Sony Corp. has patented technology that would prevent its PlayStation consoles from playing used, rented or borrowed video games — raising questions about whether the electronics and entertainment giant may attempt to redefine what it means to own something in the digital age.
Sony has said little about the technology, patented in Japan in 2000, or how it might be deployed. But speculation over Sony’s plans has sparked a furor online as game fans and consumer advocates fret that the company may incorporate it into the upcoming PlayStation 3 console, due to hit stores this fall.
They worry that it would wipe out the $1-billion-a-year market for used games and could even prevent someone from playing their games at a friend’s house.
It is not unusual for technology companies to patent innovations and then never incorporate them into products.
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i dont think they will sell any playstation 3 if they try something like this the unit itself is priced too high and then making it impossible for people to buy used games thats stupid. they will cut their own throats with this