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Downloads services such as Apple's iTunes Music Store, would be permitted to let users burn downloads to DVD, provided the discs are encrypted with CSS to prevent duplication. As this would require the production of compatible media, the association is working with disc manufacturers to ensure a supply.

In addition to downloads services, movie retailers and rental shops would be

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allowed to install kiosks where customers could order a movie and burn it to disc in the store. The DVD CCA also anticipates that the technology could be extended to network-enabled, DVD recorders.

'DVD CCA and its board members are excited at the prospect of being able to offer businesses and consumers an exciting new way to record and enjoy digital content for use in their homes, cars and elsewhere,' said Chris Cookson, chairman of the DVD CCA board. 'The creation of new ways to legally create secure DVD content is the logical next step to answer industry and consumer demand for additional legal digital distribution alternatives.'

Two US online movie stores, Movielink and CinemaNow, have already announced download-to-DVD services, but both use encryption technologies that are not always compatible with standard DVD players, not a problem with CSS which has been in use since 1996.