NBC-iPod deal further proof of TiVo's legal risk

In an earlier post, I mentioned why it was that a technology that makes it possible to transfer programs from a TiVo to an iPod will likely draw the ire of the copyright police and their legal minions.

Most of you TalkBacked along the lines of "what does it matter? Apple will sell lots more iPod's and everyone will be happy."

I explained that it does matter, because networks, studios, programmers and others have spent considerable time and effort hashing out deals that make it possible to purchase and then transfer episodes of hit ABC-TV shows like "Lost and "Desperate Housewives" for $1.99. To that same iPod where if you transferred from your TiVo, no money would change hands.

In that same post, I excerpted a comment from NBC, pointing out the network's problems with the TiVo-iPod non-business model.

Now, we know why NBC has been saying these things. They have been working on their own deal with Apple. Announced today, the deal will include such shows as "Law & Order," The Tonight Show With Jay Leno", "Late Night With Conan O'Brien," "Surface," and lots of archival shows as well.

Most of this content will be available for $1.99, either immediately or starting the morning after the previous evening's broadcast. The price is the same as for the ABC-TV programs.

All I can say now is that with a paid iPod business model now in place, the networks are going to become even less tolerant of workarounds that to them, take potential revenue away.

Watch out, TiVo. It may come down to negotiate, or get sued.