In the world of camcorder technology, RED has established itself as a major player. Starting as the underdog, they pushed the successful people in the industry to innovate or die. However, a recent revelation has raised concerns among competitors as well as consumers. RED is preventing other camera manufacturers such as Sony, Nikon, and DJI from innovating by enforcing its extensive patents on in-camera compressed raw video.
In this buzzing video, Theo Browne from the aptly named channel According to Rants explains that RED holds a patent on compression on raw video cameras, which means that other companies cannot compete in this area without RED’s approval and no licensing fees. allow them. This has resulted in a near-monopoly on cameras with suitable raw compression on board, currently only RED and Blackmagic are able to sell such cameras.
This patent has also caused problems for companies like DJI, who were forced to remove raw compression from their revolutionary camcorders after RED threatened to withdraw the license for the drone. driver. This results in the camera being unable to record raw footage, despite its advanced features and relatively affordable price tag.
Many in the industry have expressed frustration at RED’s use of patents to limit competition and stifle innovation. While RED’s cameras have certainly raised the bar in the world of camera technology, the company’s use of patents to limit competition is worrisome. As a consumer, it is important to be aware of these practices and make an informed decision when choosing which camera to assist.
So, what do you think of RED’s patent policy? Are they using patents too broad to stifle innovation or do you think they have legitimate innovation patents that should be enforced? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
