California is introducing a new law requiring digital retailers to disclose licensing terms when selling content. This change aims to protect consumer rights and increase transparency in digital shopping.
Digital Purchases: Transparency
New California Law
California Governor Gavin Newsom has approved AB 2426, a bill aimed at addressing the problem of “disappearing” digital acquisitions. Under the new rules, online platforms will be required to inform customers that they are only receiving a license to use digital content, and not full ownership.
Changes in terminology
Starting next year, digital stores will be prohibited from using the words "buy" or "purchase" if they will not provide users with information about restrictions on access to content. Companies will be required to notify customers of a license that may be revoked and provide a list of any associated restrictions. Organizations that fail to comply with this requirement may face fines for false advertising.
Exceptions and Prerequisites
The law does not apply to stores offering “continuous offline downloads.” This legislation was passed in response to actions by companies such as PlayStation and Ubisoft. In April, Ubisoft began removing the game The Crew from players' libraries after shutting down the online game's servers. Last year, Sony announced that it would remove purchased Discovery content from PlayStation users' libraries, but later retracted the decision.
Legislative Opinion
California Assemblymember Jackie Irwin emphasized, “As retailers move away from selling physical media, protecting consumer rights when purchasing digital media is becoming increasingly important."
Impact of the new law
While the new legislation won't stop stores from confiscating digital purchases, it will make users more aware of the possibility of losing access to purchased content at any time.
Glossary
- Gavin Newsom - Governor of California, USA
- PlayStation is a game console developed by Sony
- Ubisoft is a French video game development and publishing company
- The Crew is a racing video game developed by Ivory Tower and Ubisoft
- Discovery is an American media company, producer of documentaries and television programs
Links
- Engadget: Ubisoft is removing The Crew from player libraries
- The Verge: PlayStation Digital Property Issues
- The Verge: California's New Digital Purchase Disclosure Law
Answers to questions
What changes does the new law AB 2426 introduce in California?
What are the penalties for violating the new law?
Does the law apply to all digital stores?
Why was there a need for such a law?
How will the new law affect users of digital stores?
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Discussion of the topic – Digital Commerce Revolution: California is changing the rules of the game
New California law AB 2426 requires digital retailers to disclose content licensing terms and prohibits the use of the terms 'buy' or 'purchase' without proper explanation.
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Olivia
Wow! Finally, justice has been served! 🙌 Now stores won’t be able to deceive us. I wonder how this will affect prices?
Hans
Yes, Olivia, this is a big step forward. But I worry that companies might find loopholes. For example, use other words instead of buy or acquire. We need to be vigilant.
Marie
I agree with Hans. Although the law is good, it does not solve the main problem - we still do not own the content. Maybe it's time to return to physical media? 🤔
Carlos
Marie, physical media is not ideal either. They take up space and can get damaged. I think we need to demand guarantees of long-term access to digital content. What do you say?
Giovanni
Guys, you are too optimistic. This law is just more bureaucratic nonsense. Companies will still find a way around it. It would be better to deal with real problems, and not this digital nonsense.
Anna
Giovanni, don't be such a pessimist! 😄 This is an important step towards transparency. Carlos is right, we need guarantees. Maybe we should start a petition for stricter measures?
Dmitry
Anna, great idea with the petition! I would sign. You can also offer a compensation system if content becomes unavailable. This will force companies to take our rights more seriously.
Olivia
Dmitry, you are a genius! 🌟 The compensation system is what you need. Let's unite and start a campaign for digital consumer rights. Who's with me?