Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, others launch HD content security initiative

Computerworld - Panasonic, Sony, Toshiba, Samsung, and SanDisk Monday announced plans to jointly develop better security for memory cards, embedded memory and other flash storage devices.

The joint effort aims to create ways to protect high-definition content that runs across multiple platforms, including smartphones, tablets and Blu-ray players.

The companies said the so-called "Next Generation Secure Memory Initiative" will includethe development of a unique ID technology for flash memory and copy protection based on public key infrastructure.

The companies expect to begin licensing and promoting "high-definition-capable security" for SD Cards and embedded memory for use in advanced consumer applications such as tablets and smartphones by early next year.

The security applications are expected to allow HD content to be shared on a wide range of devices, including Android-based smartphones and tablets, TVs and Blu-ray products.

"With our new secure memory solution, we are excited to create a strong link between the living room experience and the mobile experience. Now consumers can enjoy watching premier content, such as movies, on the go with their smartphones and tablets," said Yoshiyuki Miyabe, CTO at Panasonic, in a statement.

"This technology will open a new door to flash memory applications. As a flash memory manufacturer, we are pleased that our flash memory technology will contribute," added Yasuo Naruke, vice president of Toshiba's Memory Division.

Lucas Mearian covers storage, disaster recovery and business continuity, financial services infrastructure and health care IT for Computerworld. Follow Lucas on Twitter at @lucasmearian, or subscribe to Lucas's RSS feed . His e-mail address is lmearian@computerworld.com.

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