What is DRM Protected Content? Definition, How It Works & More 

DRM protected content meaning is – digital content that is encrypted or locked using a Digital Rights Management (DRM) system to control access and usage. This system ensures that only authorized users can access the content, and it prevents unauthorized copying, sharing, redistribution, or screen recording. 

How does DRM Work?

DRM protection ensures that only authorized users can access digital content while enforcing specific usage rules.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how this anti-piracy software works. 

1. Content Encryption

Before distribution, digital content is encrypted. This means it’s locked and unreadable without a valid decryption key.

2. License Request: 

If a user tries to access DRM protected content, they must first obtain a license from a DRM server for their device. This license allows permission to use the content under certain conditions.

3. License Issuance & User Rights

If the user is authorized (based on payment, subscription, or other credentials), the DRM server issues a license. This license includes:

• A decryption key to unlock the content.
• Defining User Rights:  The license includes rules set by the content provider:

1. How long the user can access the content (e.g., 48-hour rental or lifetime access)?
2. How many times they can play or use it?
3. Whether they are allowed to download, copy, or share it with others.

4. Content Decryption & Access

Once the license is granted, the DRM-compliant app or device uses the decryption key to unlock and play the content. DRM software enforces all restrictions in real time, preventing unauthorised copying, screen capture, or redistribution.

As DRM protected content files are encrypted, they appear scrambled and non-playable without the decryption key.

Key Components of a DRM System : 

1. Content Provider

The originator or distributor of the digital content. For example author, publisher, music label, video streaming service.

Role of the content provider

• Creates or supplies the digital content.
• Defines content usage rights (e.g. how long users can access it, which regions it’s available in).
• Works with DRM systems to protect the content before distribution.

2. DRM Server

This is the backend system that handles security and rights enforcement.

Role of DRM server

• Encryption Key Management: Protects the content with encryption before it’s delivered to users.
• License Management: Issues licenses that define how the content can be used (e.g. view-only, time-limited).
• Authentication & Authorization: Verifies that the user or device is allowed access based on payment, subscription, or account status.
• Decryption Key Delivery: Sends keys to authorized users/devices to unlock content under the correct conditions.

3. User Device

The endpoint where users access the protected content. For example smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, Android devices, IPTVs.

Role of User device

• Runs DRM-compliant software (e.g. secure video player, ebook reader).
• Requests licenses and decryption keys from the DRM server.
• Enforces content usage policies locally (e.g. preventing downloads, blocking screen capture, or limiting offline access).

4. Encryption Engine

Encrypts content before distribution, ensuring it cannot be viewed without proper keys.

5. License Policy Engine

Defines and enforces rules like

• How many devices a user can use
• Whether offline access is allowed
• Expiration dates or region restrictions

6. DRM Client Software

Runs on the user’s device to:

• Handle license requests
• Decrypt and display content securely
• Prevent tampering, copying, or unauthorized access

7. Watermarking/Fingerprinting (Optional)

Embeds unique user identifiers into content (visible or invisible), helping trace leaks or piracy.

What kind of technologies are used with DRM protected content?

Here are the most common security technologies used with DRM protected content. Each of these digital assets are protected with DRM while still allowing legal users to access and enjoy content securely.

Encryption :

This method of DRM content protection secures digital content by converting it into a coded format that can only be unlocked with a secret key. Authorized users receive the key to access the content, while unauthorized users see only scrambled, unreadable data. 

Watermarking :

Instead of restricting access, video forensic watermarking embeds a unique identifier such as a serial number, username, or code—into the content. This mark is often invisible and does not affect the user experience. However, if a file is illegally shared, the watermark can help trace the source and identify the original owner. This way, video forensic watermarking discourages unauthorized distribution.

Fingerprinting :

Similar to watermarking, fingerprinting assigns a unique signature to digital content based on its characteristics, such as audio frequencies or pixel patterns. This DRM content protection method helps detect unauthorized modifications, such as altered versions of movies or music files, by comparing them to the original fingerprint. 

Obfuscation :

This DRM content protection method restricts content access and makes it difficult to understand without proper authorization. For example, software developers may disguise or scramble their code to prevent hacking or reverse engineering. Similarly, some digital files are intentionally structured in a way that only approved software can read them.

How DRM Protection Works in Browsers and Devices? 

Digital Rights Management (DRM) protects premium video and audio content from unauthorized access and piracy. It works in tandem with encryption to ensure that only authorized users and devices can access the content. Whether on a desktop browser or a mobile device, DRM systems follow a standard process involving encryption, secure key exchange, and controlled playback.

Playback Process: How DRM Ensures Secure Content Playback

DRM protection starts before playback even begins:

1. Encryption: 

The content is encrypted before distribution, rendering it unreadable without a valid decryption key.

2. License Request: 

When a user clicks “Play,” the media player generates a license request and sends it to the DRM license server.

3. License Response: 

The DRM server authenticates the request and returns a license that contains the decryption key.

4. Decryption: 

The media player hands the key to the Content Decryption Module (CDM) or the platform’s secure hardware, which decrypts the content.

5. Controlled Playback: 

Decrypted content is streamed in small, manageable chunks, allowing real-time monitoring and access control to prevent copying or unauthorized distribution.

DRM in Web Browsers: Compatibility and Challenges

Modern browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari support DRM through integrated Content Decryption Modules. One of the most widely used is Google Widevine, which comes pre-installed in Chrome and Firefox.

• Widevine operates in a sandboxed environment, which separates the decryption process from the rest of the browser to enhance security.
• Users are often notified when DRM is in use and may have the option to disable it, though doing so may prevent playback of certain protected content.
• Browser compatibility issues may arise due to differing levels of Widevine support (e.g., Widevine L1, L2, L3) or disabled modules, especially on older systems or open-source builds.

DRM on Mobile Devices (Android & iOS)

On mobile platforms, DRM is tightly integrated into the operating system for added security:

• Android uses Widevine DRM, which leverages hardware-backed security in certified devices (L1 support) to securely store and process decryption keys. Devices without this hardware fallback to software-based L3, which may limit resolution.
• iOS and Safari use Apple’s FairPlay DRM, embedded deeply into the operating system and tied to secure hardware components. This ensures high-level protection of premium content and user data.
• Mobile DRM frameworks are optimized for low-power operation, fast key exchange, and compatibility with native video players, ensuring seamless and secure playback on smartphones and tablets.

The effectiveness of DRM content protection depends on the device’s hardware.

L1 Security Level :

This security level provides the highest protection, ensuring encrypted content is only processed in a secure hardware environment.

L3 Security Level :

This level provides comparatively lower protection, where decryption occurs in software, making it less secure.

Major DRM Providers and their Compatibility

To ensure seamless and secure content protection across different platforms, Multi-DRM solutions are used. Since various browsers, operating systems, and devices support different DRM technologies, a multi-DRM approach ensures content is accessible while maintaining strong security. Here’s a closer look at the major DRM providers and their supported environments:

1. Google Widevine DRM

Developed by Google, Widevine is one of the most widely used DRM solutions, providing content protection across multiple platforms. It supports three security levels (L1, L2, and L3), depending on the hardware capabilities of the device.

Supported Platforms: 

• Desktop & Laptop: Chrome, Firefox, Edge on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Mobile Devices: Android Chrome, Android Edge.
• Streaming Devices: Android TV, Chromecast.

Why Widevine?
Widevine is the most commonly used DRM for web streaming, especially for browsers that do not support Apple FairPlay or Microsoft PlayReady. It offers adaptive streaming security and is widely adopted by major OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+.

2. Apple FairPlay DRM

Apple’s FairPlay DRM is a content protection system designed specifically for the Apple ecosystem. Unlike Widevine, which works across multiple browsers and platforms, FairPlay is exclusive to Apple devices and software.

Supported Platforms: 

• Desktop & Laptop: Mac Safari.
• Mobile Devices: iOS Safari, iOS apps.
• Streaming Devices: Apple TV.

Why FairPlay?
FairPlay is optimized for the Apple ecosystem, ensuring seamless content playback while maintaining high-security standards. It is used by major content providers such as iTunes, Apple TV+, and other premium streaming services.

3. Microsoft PlayReady DRM

Microsoft’s PlayReady DRM is primarily designed for Windows-based devices and works seamlessly with Edge. While Widevine also supports Edge, PlayReady is optimized for Microsoft’s media services, including Windows Media Player, Xbox, and Azure Media Services.

Supported Platforms: 

• Desktop & Laptop: Edge on Windows.
• Streaming Devices: Xbox, Windows-based Smart TVs.

Why PlayReady?
PlayReady is ideal for Microsoft-centric environments, offering robust security and support for offline playback, making it a preferred choice for services that require download-and-play functionality.

4. NCG DRM

NCG (Netsync Content Guard) DRM is a digital rights management solution designed to protect various types of content across multiple platforms. It is widely used in OTT video, audio, and ebook content services and supports both online streaming and offline playback.

Supported Platforms: 

• Desktop & Laptop: Windows, macOS (via applications).
• Mobile Devices: Android, iOS.

Why NCG DRM?
NCG DRM offers flexible content security with strong encryption and various content type support. This makes it a reliable choice for content providers who are looking to prevent unauthorised distribution of any kind of digital content across multiple devices

5. WisePlay DRM

WisePlay DRM is a digital rights management (DRM) solution developed by Huawei for securing premium video content across its ecosystem. It is designed as an alternative to Google Widevine and specifically targets Huawei devices, including HarmonyOS-based smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and other media playback devices.
Supported Platforms: 

• Smartphones and tablets running EMUI 11.0+ or HarmonyOS 2.0+
• Huawei Smart TVs running HarmonyOS 3.0 or later
  Why WisePlay DRM?
  WisePlay DRM is Huawei’s proprietary DRM solution for HarmonyOS devices, similar to Google Widevine. It is crucial for OTT services and content providers targeting the Huawei ecosystem, ensuring secure content playback on Huawei smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

Why Multi-DRM is Essential? 

Since different devices and browsers support different DRM technologies, a Multi-DRM approach ensures smooth content playback across all platforms while maintaining strong security. For example:

• A Mac Safari user will require FairPlay DRM protected content for streaming.
• A Windows Chrome user will rely on Widevine DRM.
• A Windows Edge user may use either Widevine or PlayReady.

Popular Multi-DRM providers such as PallyCon help content distributors manage multiple DRM systems through a single solution, simplifying implementation and ensuring cross-platform compatibility. 

Benefits of DRM Protected Content

DRM protected content plays a crucial role in safeguarding digital content while ensuring a fair ecosystem for both content providers and users. By preventing unauthorized access and piracy, DRM protected content helps maintain the value of digital media across different platforms.

For Content Providers 

Protects Intellectual Property & Revenue 

• DRM content protection ensures that movies, music, e-books, and software are accessed only by paying customers, reducing piracy and unauthorized distribution.
• This safeguards the investment of creators, publishers, and distributors, allowing them to generate sustainable revenue.

Enables Flexible Monetization Models 

• Content providers can offer subscriptions, rentals, pay-per-view, or ad-supported access, tailoring their services to different audience needs.
• For example, streaming platforms like Netflix use DRM protected content to allow monthly subscriptions, while Amazon Prime offers movie rentals and purchases.

Expands Market Reach & Licensing Opportunities 

• By enforcing region-based access controls, DRM content protection allows providers to sell content globally while managing licensing restrictions per country.
• This ensures compliance with regional copyright laws and allows exclusive content deals with different distribution partners.

Ensures Secure Streaming & Offline Playback 

• DRM protected content enables secure streaming by encrypting content, ensuring it cannot be illegally downloaded or screen-recorded.
• DRM content protection also supports protected offline playback, allowing users to download content legally while preventing unauthorized sharing.

Enhances Brand Reputation & Content Integrity 

• A secure content distribution system helps build trust with customers and investors.
• DRM content protection prevents content tampering, ensuring that users experience the content exactly as intended.

For Users 

Access to High-Quality & Legal Content 

• DRM protected content platforms ensure that users get authentic, high-quality media free from tampering, malware, or unauthorized modifications.
• This prevents issues like low-resolution pirated copies, missing subtitles, or poor audio quality that often come with illegal downloads.

Supports Content Creators & Fair Compensation 

• By paying for content through legal channels, users directly support continued content creation.
• This way DRM protected content helps maintain a sustainable ecosystem where creators can invest in new projects without financial loss.

Better User Experience & Exclusive Features 

• Legitimate content providers often offer additional features such as 4K resolution, multi-device streaming, subtitles, and cloud synchronization.
• Users also get access to exclusive or early-release content that may not be available through unauthorized sources.

Safe & Secure Access 

• DRM protected content platforms reduce the risk of viruses, malware, and phishing scams, which are common in illegal streaming or torrent websites.
• Users can confidently stream and download content without worrying about security threats.

Fair Usage & Parental Controls 

• DRM content protection allows users to manage multiple device access, ensuring that family members can share subscriptions fairly under authorized usage policies.
• Parents can also restrict content based on age ratings, ensuring children access only appropriate material.

What is DRM Protected Content for Video Streaming?

When a video DRM file is encrypted, it remains locked and unreadable to anyone without the proper permissions. This protection ensures that video content is both securely stored and transmitted in an encrypted format, preventing unauthorized access.

How DRM Protects Video Streaming 

To make DRM protected content accessible while maintaining security, Multi DRM protected content solutions are used. These solutions encrypt and package video content before it is streamed, ensuring broad device compatibility. Here’s how the process works:

1. Encryption & Packaging

Before a video is streamed, it is encrypted so that only authorized users can decrypt and play it. Multi DRM content protection ensures that the video can be accessed across different devices and platforms, such as browsers, smartphones, smart TVs, and streaming apps.

2. Playback Request & License Authentication

When a user tries to play DRM protected video content, the media player automatically sends a request to a DRM license server. The DRM server verifies whether the user and their device are authorized to access the content.

3. Decryption & Playback

If the user is authorized, the DRM server issues a decryption key. The video player then uses this key to decrypt and play the content securely. This entire process happens in real time, allowing seamless playback while ensuring strict content protection.

Why DRM Alone is Not Enough to Stop Video Piracy?

While DRM is highly effective at preventing unauthorized access, it is not a complete solution against all forms of video piracy. Even with DRM protected content, users can record their screens and distribute content illegally. Users may share login details, allowing multiple people to access content without proper authorization.

Additional Security Measures to Strengthen DRM Protection 

To fully protect video content from piracy, content providers should combine DRM with other security techniques, such as:

Watermarking –

This security embeds invisible identifiers into videos to trace illegal copies back to the source.

Session-Based Token Authentication  –

Requires unique user tokens for each playback session to prevent credential sharing.

Forensic Fingerprinting –

Creates unique digital “signatures” in video files to track unauthorized distribution.

Playback Restrictions –

Limits the number of devices a user can stream on to prevent excessive sharing.

How to DRM Protect a Video File?  

When publishing video content online, whether on a website, streaming platform, or premium service, content security is a major concern. To prevent misuse, various digital content protection methods are available, and one of the most effective solutions is Digital Rights Management (DRM).

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the DRM video protection workflow for securing video content.

DRM Workflow Mechanism 

The original video files are uploaded or transferred to a secure cloud storage service such as AWS S3 or other hosting platforms.

1. The video file is encoded and packaged into ABR formats such as HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) or MPEG-DASH.
2. The DRM encryption is done during the packaging time just after encoding using digital keys provided by a DRM license provider.
3. The encrypted video files are stored and distributed via a Content Delivery Network (CDN) like Amazon CloudFront or other global CDNs. CDNs enhance video delivery speed and reduce latency, ensuring a seamless streaming experience.
4. When a user attempts to play the video, the video player sends a request to the DRM license server for authentication.
5. The server checks the user’s credentials, device compatibility, and playback rights before granting access.
6. If the user is authorized, the DRM server issues a decryption key, allowing the video player to unlock and play the content securely.

Examples of DRM Protected Content

Here are some real-world uses of DRM protected content:

Online Video Streaming 

When users stream a video,  it is done through a browser or application. The license server validates every view and playback rights. Encrypted content ensures that videos cannot be downloaded, copied, or screen-recorded on most devices. Platforms also use hardware-backed DRM (e.g., Widevine L1) to prevent piracy and unauthorized access.

Live Sports Streaming 

Live sports streaming platforms use DRM to protect broadcast rights and ensure that content is only accessible to authorized viewers. These platforms often implement technologies like Widevine, PlayReady, or FairPlay to encrypt live feeds. This protection is crucial for maintaining the value of broadcasting rights and reducing piracy.

Video Games & Digital Licensing 

When purchasing a game from online stores like Steam, PlayStation Network (PSN), Xbox Store, or Nintendo eShop, users don’t actually “own” the game. Instead, they purchase a license that grants access to download and play the game.

The DRM system ensures that the game can only be played on authorized accounts and devices.

Some games require continuous online verification to prevent piracy, restricting access to unauthorized users.

E-books & Digital Publications 

DRM restricts file sharing, ensuring that a purchased e-book can only be accessed on linked devices and accounts. Some e-books include watermarking or fingerprinting to track unauthorized copies.

Software & Digital Documents 

Many software applications (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, and Microsoft Office 365) require license verification to prevent illegal usage. DRM protected content PDFs and business documents ensure restricted access, preventing users from copying, printing, or modifying sensitive files.

Challenges and Limitations of DRM

While DRM plays a crucial role in content protection, it has faced consistent criticism for various limitations and user experience issues:

User Inconvenience: 

DRM systems can sometimes block legitimate users from accessing their purchased content due to device incompatibility, regional restrictions, or connection issues.

Limited Portability: 

DRM often restricts content usage to a specific device or platform, preventing users from transferring or backing up their media freely.

Offline Access Limitations: 

Certain DRM implementations require continuous license verification or periodic online checks, disrupting offline viewing.

Risk of Misuse: 

Some fear that DRM can be used to exert excessive control over users, such as restricting screenshots, limiting playback time, or disabling accessibility features.

Technical Overhead: 

For content providers, implementing DRM adds architectural complexity and requires ongoing maintenance, testing, and updates across various platforms and devices.

DRM License Models and Architecture

DRM systems are built on license-based access models, where decryption keys are distributed only after successful authentication. The license model defines how content is consumed:

Common DRM Licensing Models:

• Subscription-Based: Users pay a recurring fee to access content, typically tied to time-bound licenses (e.g., Netflix, Spotify).
• Transactional (Rental): The license expires after a set duration or number of views (e.g., 48-hour movie rentals).
• Perpetual: Users purchase permanent access, but it’s still governed by device or account limits.
• Metered Access: Access is granted based on data consumption or playback duration, often used in eLearning or trial content.

DRM Architectural Considerations:

• License Server: Authenticates the user and issues decryption keys.
• Key Management System (KMS): Handles encryption and secure storage of content keys.
• Content Decryption Module (CDM): Resides in the device or browser to securely decrypt content.
• Secure Playback Path: Ensures decrypted content flows through protected memory and video pipeline, preventing screen recording or tampering.

DRM Technology vs. Copyright Laws

DRM and copyright law both aim to protect digital content, but they function in fundamentally different ways:

DRM Technology:

• Preventive: DRM enforces restrictions at the technical level, stopping unauthorized access or copying before it happens.
• Automated Enforcement: Controls how, when, and where content is accessed.
• Platform-Specific: Tied to software and hardware ecosystems (e.g., Widevine, FairPlay).

Copyright Laws:

• Legal Framework: Copyright laws provide creators with legal rights to their work and recourse in the event of infringement.
• Post-Factum Enforcement: Copyright enforcement happens after the fact through lawsuits, takedowns, or legal action.
• Jurisdiction-Dependent: Protection and penalties vary across countries and legal systems.

Complementary Role:

DRM provides immediate, technical protection, while copyright laws offer long-term legal safeguards. Together, they form a dual-layer defense against piracy and unauthorized use.

DRM in the Media and Entertainment Industry

In today’s hyper-connected world, the media and entertainment industry is one of the most vulnerable to digital piracy and unauthorized content sharing. DRM plays a vital role in safeguarding this high-value content:

Prevents Content Leakage: 

DRM encrypts live broadcasts and early-release films, protecting them from illegal recording or redistribution.

Secure Monetization: 

Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime use DRM to control access and enforce subscription rules.

Regulatory Compliance: 

Studios and content distributors often require DRM to comply with contractual obligations and digital distribution standards.

Anti-Piracy Shield: 

By ensuring content is only accessible through authorized platforms, DRM makes large-scale piracy operations more difficult and less profitable.

DRM is now embedded in the digital distribution chain—from content creation to delivery—serving as a cornerstone of cybersecurity in entertainment.

Common DRM Issues and Troubleshooting

Users frequently encounter technical issues when streaming DRM-protected content. These problems can stem from device compatibility, browser settings, outdated apps, or licensing errors. Below are some common errors and how to resolve them.

Fix DR-1100 Error on Android Devices

The DR-1100 error typically occurs on Android devices when there’s an issue with DRM certification, such as Google Widevine not functioning properly.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide:

1. Check Widevine Certification:
   • Go to chrome://version in your mobile browser or use the DRM Info app from the Play Store.
   • Ensure your device supports Widevine L1 for HD/Full HD content. If it shows L3, your playback may be restricted.
2. Clear App Cache and Data:
   • Go to Settings > Apps > [Streaming App] > Storage.
   • Tap Clear Cache and Clear Data, then relaunch the app.
3. Update the App:
   • Make sure the streaming app and your Android OS are both up to date.
4. Reboot the Device:
   • A simple restart can reset DRM services and resolve temporary issues.
5. Reinstall the App:
   • Uninstall and reinstall the streaming app to refresh all associated DRM modules.
6. Check Security Settings:
   • Ensure your device isn’t rooted, as DRM services may be disabled on rooted or modified firmware.

If the problem persists after all steps, contact the streaming provider’s support with your device model and error code.

Resolve Netflix Error N8156-6013

Error N8156-6013 on Netflix is a DRM-related issue often seen on Windows systems when Microsoft Silverlight or DRM license storage is corrupted.

How to Fix:

1. Close All Browsers:
   • Exit all open browsers to ensure changes can take effect.
2. Delete DRM License Files:
   • Navigate to the following folder:
     C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\PlayReady
   • Delete the file named mspr.hds.
     (This forces Windows to regenerate the file upon the next playback.)
3. Reopen Netflix and Retry:
   • Relaunch your browser and try playing the video again.
4. Update Silverlight (if still in use):
   • Visit the Microsoft Silverlight download page and install the latest version if needed.
5. Switch Browsers:
   • Try using a different supported browser like Chrome or Edge, which use Widevine instead of Silverlight for DRM.
6. Check for Browser Extensions:
   • Disable ad blockers or privacy extensions that may interfere with DRM licensing.

Still facing the issue? Reach out to Netflix support with the error code and a description of your system setup.

Why Choose Doverunner for DRM Content Protection? 

Doverunner is a comprehensive multi-DRM solution designed to safeguard premium digital content across various platforms, ensuring that it remains protected from unauthorized access, piracy, and distribution. With its support for popular DRM technologies like Widevine, PlayReady, and FairPlay, PallyCon helps prevent unauthorized access, piracy, and content theft. Additionally, it offers features like advanced encryption, watermarking, and license management, making it an essential tool for businesses looking to safeguard their digital media assets.

Conclusion 

To answer the question of what is DRM protected content you must know that DRM content protection is a must for securing digital media, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring creators’ rights are upheld. Whether for video streaming, music, software, or e-books, DRM ensures that content is only accessible by authorized users, offering a reliable way to combat piracy and ensure fair compensation. By using DRM protected content, content providers can safeguard their assets and deliver secure, high-quality experiences to their audiences.

Frequently Asked Questions on DRM Protected Content 

1. What type of content tends to have DRM protection?

DRM protected content is typically applied to digital content that is easily susceptible to piracy or unauthorized redistribution. Common types of DRM content protection include:

• Video streaming services 
• Music streaming platforms 
• E-books and digital publications 
• Software and video games 

2. Can DRM protected content expire?

Yes, DRM protected content can expire. The expiration depends on the license terms set by the content provider. For example, streaming services may restrict access to certain content after a specific period. Video games or software licenses may have time-limited access or require renewals.

3. Can you remove DRM protection?

Removing DRM content protection is generally not legal unless you have explicit permission from the content owner. DRM is designed to protect the rights of content creators and distributors, so circumventing DRM content protection is prohibited under copyright law.
In most cases, DRM can be removed only by the content provider or authorized entities when upgrading or migrating to a new device or platform.