Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

> It's only "free" if you value your time at $0/hr.

Checking the OS version, browser version, HDMI cable reference and screen reference to pray that the DRM works isn't really easy nor instantaneous either.

I'd say it's even more annoying than torrenting




If you're accessing via a personal computer at all you're already in a fairly small percentage of users.

The smart TV and set top box ecosystem work fine, and that's where the users are.


I was actually generous by picking a computer, with the amount of cheap and non updatable smart TVs, I doubt that more than 20% work with the strongest DRM.

And then if that's the case, it's either piracy or buying a new TV if you want the best quality.


>I was actually generous by picking a computer, with the amount of cheap and non updatable smart TVs, I doubt that more than 20% work with the strongest DRM.

DRM doesn't care that you're on the latest patch level with all CVEs patched, only that your system is vaguely "secure" (ie. has a TEE, even if it's full of holes). The netflix app works on phones with Android 5 from over a decade ago, so similarly old smart TVs are probably fine as well. Failing that, they can buy an up-to-date roku/fire stick for $25.


Pretty much any brand name smart TV supports the "strongest" DRM and has full UHD Netflix et al support, and has done since about 2016/2017.


Most of the time these days I can’t actually find a search engine to give me links, so they have mostly won.




Consider applying for YC's Summer 2025 batch! Applications are open till May 13

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: