In this episode of The FreshWire, Jason discusses a new notice from the FCC regarding the ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) over-the-air standard. He contrasts it with the older ATSC 1.0 standard, highlighting 3.0's superior capabilities, including support for 4K resolution, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio. The main issue discussed is the implementation of DRM encryption on these new signals, which makes them inaccessible on certain devices like the host's HDHomeRun box that connects to a network router instead of directly to a TV.
The FCC is proposing significant rule changes, including potentially eliminating the mandatory simulcasting of both 1.0 and 3.0 signals, which could allow broadcasters to switch entirely to ATSC 3.0. The commission is also scrutinizing the role of the A3SA as a "gatekeeper" for DRM, questioning if encrypting a free public broadcast violates the Communications Act or consumers' fair use rights for in-home recording. A public comment period will follow the FCC's meeting on October 28th.
Other topics covered include:
Discord Security Incident: A third-party customer service provider used by Discord, 5CA, suffered a data breach. The breach was not of Discord's own systems but exposed user data including names, emails, IP addresses, and, for about 70,000 users, government ID images that were submitted for age-related appeals.
Apple Vision Pro: The device will get its first live immersive sports broadcasts, featuring select Los Angeles Lakers games in the upcoming NBA season.
Chevrolet Bolt: The popular EV is confirmed to return for the 2027 model year, with a starting price just under $30,000. However, it will not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Netflix: The streaming service is launching a series of TV-based party games "coming soon," including titles based on Lego, Pictionary, and Tetris.
PlayStation: Sony has teased new GPU technology for its next-generation console, fueling rumors that a PlayStation 6 could launch as early as 2027.
