Compatibility requirements
Learning Ally WMA Downloadable books use Windows Media® Audio and Digital Rights Management (DRM) technologies. In order to be compatible with the service, portable media players must meet the following criteria:
- Be able to play Windows Media Audio (WMA) files
Not all media players can play WMA format files. In particular, many inexpensive MP3 players are limited to playing only the MP3 format. Note that the Apple iPod® cannot play WMA files. What MP3 players will work with Learning Ally books?
- Be able to play WMA files at a bit rate of 32 kbps
Most music files are encoded at bit rates of 128 kbps or higher. Learning Ally uses the 32 kbps bit rate to minimize the size of the audio files. Some players cannot play files at very low bit rates. Check a player’s specifications to be sure.
- Be able to play protected Windows Media files
Some players, even if they play WMA format files, cannot play protected WMA files. Learning Ally uses Windows Media DRM to protect WMA downloaded books. Players that can support protected WMA will often indicate “WMA-DRM” as a supported audio type.
Note: Neither the Apple iPod nor the Microsoft Zune® can play protected WMA files.
- Be compatible with subscription-based protected Windows Media content
Not all players that can play protected WMA can also play the extra DRM requirements for subscription-based services. In the past, players compatible with this technology carried the “Plays For Sure” logo. Microsoft will be phasing out the “Plays For Sure” program, so this is no longer a reliable sign of compatibility. Typically, players that are compatible with subscription services will say so in their specifications.
To determine if a player meets these requirements, refer to the player documentation for the player specifications. The specs will usually list the file formats supported, along with the bit rates supported for each.
Please refer to the player manufacturer's website to ensure that the player you purchase meets the minimum requirements necessary to play WMA Downloadable books.
As of 4/11/2011